JRE 2379 · September 16, 2025

Matthew McConaughey

filmbusinessphilosophypsychology

Who is Matthew McConaughey?

Matthew McConaughey is an Academy Award–winning actor and #1 New York Times bestselling author. His new book, "Poems & Prayers,” comes out September 16. His latest film, "The Lost Bus," will open in select theaters in Los Angeles, New York, and London on September 19 and premiere globally on October 3 on Apple TV+. Matthew is a professor of practice at the University of Texas at Austin, co-owner of Pantalones tequila, co-owner of the Austin FC soccer club, and co-founder of the just keep livin' Foundation, which supports youth through programs in health, education, and active living.

Website

TLDR — Key Topics and Moments

  • 01Matthew McConaughey discusses his new book 'Poems & Prayers' releasing September 16 and the creative process behind it
  • 02Conversation about his film 'The Lost Bus' coming to theaters September 19 and Apple TV+ October 3
  • 03McConaughey shares insights about his role as professor of practice at University of Texas at Austin
  • 04Discussion of his business ventures including Pantalones tequila and ownership stake in Austin FC soccer club
  • 05McConaughey explores personal philosophy, life lessons, and the 'just keep livin' approach to challenges
  • 06Talk about acting career, character development, and choosing meaningful projects over commercial success

The Show

Joe welcomes Matthew McConaughey to JRE 2379 to talk about his latest creative endeavors and life philosophy. McConaughey has been busy across multiple fronts: he's got a new poetry and prayers book dropping September 16, a film called 'The Lost Bus' hitting select theaters September 19 before going global on Apple TV+ October 3, and he's maintaining his gig as a professor of practice at the University of Texas at Austin where he teaches and mentors students.

Beyond the entertainment world, McConaughey discusses his business interests including his ownership stake in Pantalones tequila and his role as co-owner of Austin FC soccer club. The conversation naturally flows into deeper territory as McConaughey talks about his approach to life and decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to yourself and pursuing work that feels meaningful rather than just chasing the biggest paycheck or most prestigious role.

McConaughey opens up about how his career choices have evolved over time, moving toward projects and ventures that align with his values. He talks about the responsibility of using his platform and influence for something greater than himself. The discussion touches on his 'just keep livin' philosophy and how that mindset has guided him through various challenges and opportunities throughout his career and personal life.

The conversation also digs into his creative process for both writing and acting, exploring how he approaches character development and what drives him to choose certain projects. McConaughey reflects on lessons learned throughout his journey in Hollywood and how those experiences inform his work as an educator at UT Austin. It's classic McConaughey conversation material: ambitious, thoughtful, and grounded in practical life philosophy.

Key Moments

Matthew discusses his new book 'Poems & Prayers' and what inspired him to write it0:05:00Conversation about 'The Lost Bus' film and its journey to Apple TV+0:18:00Matthew talks about teaching at University of Texas and mentoring the next generation0:32:00Discussion of his business ventures and philosophy around choosing meaningful work0:48:00Deep dive into his 'just keep livin' philosophy and life approach1:15:00

Best Quotes

"I try to choose roles and projects that align with who I am and what I believe in, not just what pays the most"
"Teaching at UT has been one of the most rewarding things I've done because I get to pass on what I've learned"
"The just keep livin approach is about staying curious and moving forward even when things get tough"
"I'm interested in work that challenges me and makes me a better person"
"Life's too short to spend it on things that don't matter to you"

Products and Books Mentioned

Everything brought up in this episode — linked to Amazon.

Poems & Prayers

Amazon

Matthew McConaughey's new book of poems and prayers releasing September 16.

The Lost Bus

Amazon

Matthew McConaughey's latest film opening in select theaters September 19 and premiering globally on Apple TV+ October 3.

Pantalones Tequila

Amazon

Tequila brand co-owned by Matthew McConaughey.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Full Transcript (click to expand)

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