What if everything you’ve been told about success is missing one key ingredient, how deeply you care?
Jay sits down with David Grutman, one of the most influential names in global hospitality, who built a world-renowned empire from the ground up. Together they unpack a powerful idea that challenges conventional wisdom: what if the real secret to success isn’t detachment, but deeply caring? From his early days as a bartender to creating iconic experiences that shape culture, David reveals how taking things personally, your work, your relationships, and every detail of what you put into the world, can become a driving force for growth. While most people are taught to brush things off, David chose the opposite, turning mistakes, rejection, and feedback into fuel to sharpen his craft and raise his standards.
Jay highlights how David’s success wasn’t built on titles or transactions, but on genuine human connection. From remembering a guest’s drink to building long-term relationships with artists and entrepreneurs, David reveals that real influence comes from adding value without expectation. Jay reflects on how many people chase quick wins or surface-level networking, but true impact lies in playing the long game, showing up consistently, investing in others, and creating meaningful experiences that people never forget.
In this episode you’ll learn:
How to Turn Mistakes Into Growth
How to Build Relationships That Last
How to Make People Feel Seen and Valued
How to Build Confidence Without a Title
How to Give Feedback That Actually Works
How to Stay Grounded While Winning
Every setback carries a lesson, and every interaction is an opportunity to build something meaningful. When you focus on adding value, staying curious, and giving your best, you begin to create momentum that others can feel.
If you’re ready to level up how you show up in life and relationships, don’t miss David Grutman’s latest book, Take It Personal. Pre-order your copy today, visit: https://zandoprojects.com/books/take-it-personal-hardcover
With Love and Gratitude,
Jay Shetty
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What We Discuss:
00:00 Intro
01:07 Why You Should Take It Personal
05:06 The Small Details That Make People Feel Seen
07:11 The Real Path to Self-Improvement
07:59 Turning Anger Into Growth
09:06 How to Give Feedback That Actually Works
11:20 Creating a 10/10 Customer Experience
12:52 Every Day Is a New Opportunity
14:33 Building Something From Nothing
16:27 The Power of Genuine Relationships
19:51 Does Networking Actually Work?
22:28 How to Play the Long Game
26:50 The Truth About Real Success
29:30 Lessons From a Difficult Childhood
30:56 Becoming the Parent You Needed
31:53 Balancing Ambition and Family Life
33:32 Evolving Into Your Next Chapter
35:54 The Power of Being a Connector
37:55 Scarcity vs. Abundance Mindset
39:47 Check Your Ego at the Door
41:56 Staying Grounded While Winning
43:03 The Strength of a True Partnership
45:28 What Makes a Truly Great Idea?
46:42 What Makes Someone Worth Betting On?
48:39 Learning to Slow Down and Reflect
50:32 Finding Joy in the Present Moment
54:53 David in Final Five
Episode Resources:
Website | https://groothospitality.com/
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/davegrutman/
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/davidgrutman/
X | https://x.com/DaveGrutman
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