Oscar-Winner Daniel Kaluuya: Why You Should Reject Others' Opinions & Bet On Yourself

Today, I sit down with award-winning actor Daniel Kaluuya, best known for his roles in “Black Panther” and “Get Out”.
In this conversation, Daniel looks back on the challenges he faced as a Black aspiring actor, the frustration felt when his experience was invalidated, and the prejudiced nature of Hollywood. We learn about the creative spark behind his directorial debut "The Kitchen" and his firm belief that one's potential to realize a dream is not dictated by the opinions of others.
If you like this episode, you'll also enjoy my podcast with UK Pop Star Jay Sean. Check it out right here 👉 • Pop Star Jay Sean REVE...
In this interview, we discuss:
00:00 Intro
00:57 What Have You Been Told You Couldn't Do?
06:11 How Did You Become a Writer?
08:52 Learning the Art of Improv
11:06 Shared Love for Football
16:18 Navigating Racism & Colorism
21:24 How to Bet On Yourself
26:36 The Inspiration for "The Kitchen"
32:34 Londoner vs. New Yorker Mentalities
39:20 The Power of Creativity
44:03 Daniel's "Monk Mindset"
48:48 What Would You Like People to Know About You?
55:01 How Do You Want People to Feel About Your Work?
57:32 Final Five With Daniel Kaluuya
Episode Resources:
Daniel's Instagram: / danielkaluuya
Want to learn to coach like Jay Shetty? Discover how here: gtly.to/PMlHc6JZw

[@JayShettyPodcast.]

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[@miaglenn5970]

I😮pra really do 😮😮d

[@dominiquegarner8624]

King Energy ❤️

[@Georginna123]

I find Daniel so attractive, he seems so self aware and in control of himself I find that so manly. And not in pursuit of power but instead his highest self.

[@sedi2066]

Thats a fine man savanna

[@poofbah431]

He’s also wealthy

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@sassyx2048]

💯 agree he is very self aware. Love that about him and his skin just glows with richness.

[@hellothere8347]

Yesss he is fine and he go after what he want

[@LEM19284]

“Fail in private and grow at my own pace” Love that. ❤

[@ivainyamutsamba8540]

Bar

[@osekresvibes]

Heck, fail in public if you have to

[@rainbowrisingfreedom369]

@@osekresvibeshonest ❤

[@theboldzone]

"Once you're in your head, you're dead." I can overanalyze and overthink situations which has paralyzed me. This is such an amazing mantra to take. He said it so subtle, yet it's immensely impactful.

[@nasabapayi]

Thisss❤

[@lovehearts3375]

I’ve been watching Daniel’s interviews for years. This guy has deep insight on life and his overall perspective on the subjects that he discuss is very enlightening. This guy is highly intelligent, has self belief and ahead of his time. He seems so humble and grounded. One in a million ❤️

[@SowingSeedsWithChristy]

You said what I was thinking. 😊 Ditto! ❤

[@user-jk7gf8lq6q]

wow… so nice to read this. I will find his interviews.

[@Sapsy]

Daniel is the kind of guy who is effortlessly destined for greatness

[@KG-bliss]

Yep!!!

[@Itsdesireegrace]

I just love how calm he is…so sure. So confident. “The difference between delusion and faith is God”

[@kaylapaige04]

“Don’t try and be good, try and be honest” 55:04 Sheeeeeesh 🔥 Simple, yet profound. Thank you for that, Daniel!

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@missc541]

Don't even try - just be!

[@AcceptandAct]

Face your fears. Try new and different things. Get out of your comfort zone. Take on challenges. That's the only way to build self-knowledge, self-trust, and confidence. Otherwise, there's a risk that you'll spend your whole life on auto-pilot, never reaching your full, amazing potential, and living a life that you didn't really choose. That's the battle we all must fight as adults - if we want to live freely, consciously, meaningfully and authentically

[@user-us6un4hi1w]

I love how Daniel explained about his dealings with racism and how someone else has to point it out before it can be true. I've known this to happen across many boundaries and it is rubish for sure. I really enjoyed this episode. Thanks Jay! ❤❤❤

[@Piqueblinders11]

Apart from the fact no black people hold their own people accountable for racism

[@OHANA-BEACH-SUITES]

Love his story/journey! I’m a high school drop out, ADHD, former Special Ed student, working 2 full time Security Officer jobs in Seattle 90 to 100 hours a week, for several years, while my team builds my Beach Hotel in the Philippines! We open next year! Dreams come true! I was told NO for bank loans, and I CAN’T do many things, I enjoy the challenge, I love the Chase! LETS GO!

[@pointlessNYC]

Someone should be telling your story! I hope you will be brave enough to share it one day.

[@KG-bliss]

That is just inspiring ❤

[@kelechi__]

Keep pushing!

[@OHANA-BEACH-SUITES]

@@kelechi__ YES!!!!🙏❤️🏝️🏨🇵🇭

[@missc541]

Why do THEY say you have ADHD?

[@Oceanflow84]

Daniel Kaluuya is amazing and hits so many great points about being a creative person, going after your dreams and betting on yourself. It feels like he comes from a very intuitive place and it shows how that helps him navigate the world.

[@SOI-wl2lo]

Daniel Kaluuya is such a rare breed 👌

[@stanleyanthony9850]

@jay … this guy is a PICK for everything good and am of Ugandan decent. I have to guide my kids to listen to this podcast. It will turn them into heroes after him.

[@danaw23]

I’m a new fan of Daniel’s because of this interview. He has such profound insight and depth. What a beautiful human being. ❤

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@musclehead8649]

Daniel is a solid dude. Love him and what he stands for.

[@TheSublimeFactor]

Daniel is an inspiring and wonderful man. I had the pleasure of meeting him and worked on a job with him. He is the real deal. Amazing person. Thanks for this!

[@louisrajaona5939]

What an analytical, humble and genuine guy. Simply lovely, and thank you Jay ❤

[@StungbySamantha]

Favorite episode of all time. The Chemistry between the two of you is perfection!

[@ncumisandungane8651]

I just love how he's so clear and so articulate about who.he is. Self -defined man. ❤

[@H.K.5]

He’s a good guy but he’s definitely not articulate lol

[@j9walters526]

Never clicked on a podcast so fast

[@bethelllllll]

Omg same😂

[@tendaimundumbwila344]

Wow! Such self awareness, wisdom and great perspective on life. I didn’t expect this particular episode to move me. I have never actually watched anything he has done before. He just gained a fan! What a profound guy! I hope he continues to live fully up to his purpose and continues to grow with the grace and humility he has. I also like how he makes these sounds effects!😂 great episode, I will be listening to it again and again, so many nuggets to take from here.❤

[@JustUdoro]

I am adding him to my list of beautiful storytellers. I am so proud of him and to see his confidence in such an endearing way is life. Keep going! Jay, thank you for having him!! ❤️

[@Diaryofthedelusional]

I can say this is probably one of the best interviews ever Jay, thanks to the both of you for the beautiful beautiful conversation 🙏🏿

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@preslynphillips7066]

The guest this season!!!! My goodness 🔥🔥

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@zion8236]

Mr. Kaluuya, Thank you for being You. I really enjoyed this interview. He shared so many gems of wisdom. I will definitely watch this interview again and again. 🎉🙌🏽💚 Thank you, Jay, I really enjoy your content. 🙏🏽

[@lifewithlyza4423]

Good Morning Everyone ☀️ ⛅️ 🌥️ Gratitude for another beautiful day 🌤️

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@aliciasmith5012]

Humble yet unique. He has a wonderful mindset. Such a great interview 👏🏽

[@Awusie]

Another incredibly insightful & rich interview! Love Daniel Kaluuya's work, words, and warrior spirit. Always a gift when folks can articulate what I may not have found the proper phrasing for in my own lived experience. Well done. Also ...Arsenal 🙌

[@theworldoftaj]

This interview is so reflective of the space I’ve been in the past couple of weeks.. Honesty above all, it’s simple, it’s peaceful, it’s true and anything else isn’t worth what comes with it. ❤ thank you both

[@mr.badass5292]

Man he’s so highly intelligent, I love the talk between you guys! Incredible chemistry!’

[@favenzewde7206]

One of my faves! Amazing interview. Raw, authentic, beautiful & priceless.

[@nathanleung5592]

Really had a brilliant time enjoying this episode! I listened to it while cleaning my mind. Thank you, Jay & Daniel

[@zombiepigboy]

Really enjoyed this episode! I listened to it while cleaning my room. Thank you, Jay and Daniel!

[@lifewithlucinda989]

Surprised at how many gems I pulled from this. Daniel’s mindset is so refreshing to hear. I’m officially a fan

[@bethelllllll]

I’ve always been so in awe of this man. I don’t know if it’s the Pisces in him, but his mind is so incredible & courageous. I’m so proud of everything he’s become against all odds & with humility at that🙏 a literal inspiration for black boys and men & I love this for us ❤

[@Nasanga11]

Amazing interview...serious gems thrown around thank you 😊😊 also love the fact that he is wearing the coat of arms on his necklace very rare our generations still respect that...mad respect ❤

[@cupidsiza]

What a wise human being...I could have listened to this conversation forever...so humble, so gracious...so zen!🙏💞His mind and spirit is so pure!.

[@apr1583]

I really enjoy listening to Daniel speak about his thoughts and experience. His wonder at life reminds me that we should never forget to see the wonder is things.

[@snb_angels]

Jay continues to bring the quality content 🫶🏽 I adore Daniel K. So much 🥰 Thank you both for this meaningful conversation 🩷

[@Lally5]

So kind of you guys. Thanks for sharing.

[@Kennzzxo]

he’s such a light ❤

[@trapplaya1]

I was so deep into this interview, loved this 💗

[@rebeccacharles5758]

2 minutes 46 seconds in I'm already inspired. It's something I relate to been told and being told the same thing, I'm not in media I'm talking about in my life experiences past qnd current. I'm going to come back to watch this, as it's late. Soon come.

[@kelechi__]

Daniel Kaluuya. Brilliant thinker! This was an amazing interview. On my third replay since it dropped, absolutely brilliant! "Truth is what happened, honesty is how you feel about what happened"

[@bwalyapongolati]

Jay’s podcast is an interview/ therapy. Loved this one

[@shernellwillingham2451]

I absolutely adore this man. I would sit and listen to him talk all day ❤️❤️❤️

[@rika7625]

This was a great interview but felt more like a conversation. This man is a great actor and after watching this, I realize he is so much more! 😊

[@groundtenpro]

Daniel is one of the most introspective actors I've seen in interviews he's like the London version of Jim Carry lol but forreal this was an amazing episode and you can tell Jay was genuinely intrigued by the entire conversation. This is what real podcasts should be about, walking away and feeling like you've actually gained something from watching. Great work to both of you, fellas!

[@contagiouslove2243]

OmG I think I’m in love with him 😫🥰 so inspiring and intentional.🙌🏾🙏🏾

[@zetristan4525]

Be careful, everyone will catch it from you🥰

[@missemilyjhart]

Love the new intro!! Thanks for the update. Sounds great!

[@andrearoyehealandtransform9609]

Great interview, Daniel is really inspiring. Thank you both ❤

[@bibiananganga]

Sending so much love to Ian aka Almasi. You did amazing when you were in Macharia. We looked up to your character. And now with this spiritual awaking, you continue to be a pillars to so many people especially here in Kenya where we are getting to learn this awakening moments. Great work you are doing to live an act of service. Thank you for been a blessing to me

[@diannensquires7255]

Wow, wow, wow! He's ok with himself and that's absolutely refreshing! Great chat.

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@aryapage3910]

I absolutely loved this episode! I didn't realize how much I resonated with him since I've only seen him on movies and never heard him speak. But I realize now that there are people who think like me and I love to see it. I believe in myself and I don't feel the need to seek validation so much especially in my values. This type of mindset is worth a lot but can't be bought and that's the beauty of it! When it comes to accomplishing things; what matters is whether you believe you can do it, no one else's opinion matters but your own. Consequently, you work on building on the qualities and skills that you need to get where you want to go - everything else is irrelevant unless you give it value - just tune out ALL external negative voices. It's not easy but the good thing is you can always return to that state when you feel lost. In the end you realize that indeed only your own opinion of yourself really matters in getting you where you want to go.

[@lianaa4401]

The was great! Just the conversation I needed to listen to. Loved it. Thank both of you! ❤and thank you to your team 🙏🏽

[@TM2086]

I remember seeing Dainel Kaluuya act in a stage play at The WAC (Weekends Arts College) in Camden, one of the best actors I've seen live.

[@johnniejonesjr]

Thank you Daniel 👏🏾

[@Pauline12365]

Yesss! Kaluyu.... Deep! Let Go. Love this brotha! Proud African moment. When humans transcend worldly nonsense their humanity glows. You are glowing brotha. Yes, if you have learned to hate a group of people go live with them for a year then decide... Genius!

[@KG-bliss]

Some people are blessed with just running to peace ALL THE TIME!!! Judging, comparing, competing, etc.... oh my gosh... peace all the time Daniel❤

[@carlosakacaligula1057]

I remember him for his movie" get out"❤

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@Nuverselive]

His level of faith is equal to his level of humbleness. That combo equals greatness ! His explanation of racism capsulizes the unspoken pain many of us have felt. Having symptoms that reflect this social construct but not allowed to express it and have it taken seriously is pure idiocracy. As a black woman, with sickle cell anemia that was raised in poverty, I had to face every imprisoning social construct on this planet. I hope we can all Learn from this talk the importance of accepting each others truth. Without doing so, the world will continue to crumble in chaos until the ones with authentic thoughts live in their truth and accept others who are brave enough to express theirs. Gaslighting one another diminishes our own freedom. This is a world of cause and effect. Be revolutionarily aware but don’t get caught up in the hype~ Khamsin

[@missmadeofficial]

So many gems in this episode! I love Daniel's mind, wow!

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@nritti_]

I love this man. I first seen him on Get Out movie and that became my favorite movie and he became my favorite actor. I even bought the Get Out funko pop of him in the chair lol 🖤

[@tinahurley743]

As always the best of any imaginable best!!! Thank you! You can feel a sort of rapport between you, guys! God bless you!

[@Klosejerry]

God is in you, he isn't a big brother, listen to him. wonderful episode.

[@missemilyjhart]

Love the new intro!! Good choice to update. It sounds great😁

[@Justonevideoplease]

2mins in and already life changing story!!!!!! I will tell my kids this story!!!!!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@VishalKumar-gl9ik]

Daniel - Thank you brother

[@thomasthomasphilp4393]

I am an Indian kid too. I love singing. Thats a no go in family!

[@TR6-2.0]

❤, thank you for this 🙏🏽.

[@sheeva3.0]

Daniel Kaluuyah!!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@lamariaaminah]

Brother is dropping so many gems🙏🏽

[@Wewantasiaro]

This was realm changing, this was beautiful. Thank you for this🙏🏾

[@ThePersonalDevelopmentSchool]

❤

[@comfybella3503]

Brilliant interview, what an absolute G 👌xx

[@AndiOjeda123]

6:31 “I’m blessed I have faith…” my goodness does that resonate. Faith really gets you places when you can’t imagine or shouldn’t imagine that far. You are appreciated Daniel!

[@drakeoliver25]

One of my favorite episodes!

[@ebonywagner1682]

Im inlove with Daniel theres just such a purity that he has i really enjoy listening to him

[@armanianderson4417]

I loved this session! Daniels mindset is amazing we love a logical thinker he truly filled with genuine peace and kindness love that

[@MarvaButler]

Wow! Just so profound the words and messages expressed by Daniel Kaluuya - pray and pray giving gratitude to GOD within YES! not some one up there…like big brother 1984 or something. Absolutely LOVE this brother and you to Jay! Blessings

[@spill2475]

daniel kaluuya you are an icon in the making

[@_gemini408]

His response to the first question alone.... Powerful !

[@aleksandrachudobska5233]

You just have to love Daniel's straightforwardness and the overall "realness" ❤ I need the Top Boy's revival with him!

[@mwihaki__]

Great man , great interview

[@CAROS_FITNESS]

This interview was dope 👌👏

[@user-lf1yi8tl5f]

The best podcast ever 🙌 ❤️

[@monig9961]

Yass! I am here early. Love you man, you are awesome. Just started my journey with your channel a few days ago and I have learn some interesting things.

[@Missdragonfruit]

Daniel went through I did too, my English teacher gave a rubbish grade on my English paper and suggested me to watch English TV & films to better my English and now I have a career in writing because of it , life is crazy sometimes 😅 I feel seen in this life experience 😅

[@TheeTage]

Looking forward to this interview 🤍

[@hannafromatlanta]

47:00 Loved his reaction at this moment! Made me laugh and a thought to think about more

[@AndersonHeng]

dude the space is immaculate wow

[@SueChef100]

Congratulations brother🎊🎊🎊🎊🎊🎊🎊

[@hala852]

This man is soooo profound. Wow! Great interview.

[@devhausstudios4377]

My favorite actor right now, and the best young black actor working

[@cmessett11]

I want to walk around with Daniel in my life! You know, how people say they want Morgan Freeman to narrate their life, because his voice gives gravitas to the mundane. To me, Daniel drops profound nuggets that I’d want to hear that would help me start seeing the powerful in the mundane. I just love his energy! Thanks, Jay, for asking the right questions!

[@inbeenergy]

Great conversation 👌🏽

[@MissCielo99]

Daniel Kaluuya is 🔥! Such profound insights, honesty, integrity. So much truth here. Thanks Jay Shetty. And also, Go Gooners!!!

[@kolynslester6858]

Incredible episode

[@NicE32E]

This was such a beautiful listen. Finding out that he is Hobie Brown at his soul was the discovery I needed 😄

[@DaisySimmons1]

Great episode!! Thanks Jay and Daniel!

[@sallieusesay6113]

What a great interview

[@user-zj9do4ml2w]

Loved this interview - very inspiring!