The Buried Life aired at the height of MTV’s reality TV boom. It was a documentary-style series, following Ben Nemtin and a group of his friends as they set out to complete a 100-item bucket list. This wasn’t a typical bucket list, though. Each task was outrageous, seemingly impossible, and meant to push them out of their comfort zones. And once a task was completed, they’d help a stranger cross something off their bucket list, too.
The series was equal parts inspiring, heartfelt, and invigorating. And, at the center of it all was Ben. While The Buried Life television show may be long over, Ben continues the legacy’s movement through advocacy and motivational speaking. Naturally, as captivating as his life is, Lauryn and Michael knew they had to bring Ben on for an interview.
You can listen to Ben Nemtin’s podcast with TSC below. But if you’ve already tuned in or are hungry for more of Ben’s motivating words? This is the post for you. Here, we’re diving into Ben’s bestselling book and guided journal. These tools can help you chase the impossible and start your own “Buried Life” adventure.
Ben Nemtin Books Summaries: Make Your Bucket List a Reality
Before we get into Ben Nemtin’s written works, we’ll give you a little backstory on this MTV legend. It’ll help you understand why this movement means so much to him—and to a whole generation that grew up in the 2010s.
Here’s what you need to know about Ben Nemtin:
Who Is Ben Nemtin?
Ben Nemtin is a motivational speaker, author, and co-creator of the MTV show, The Buried Life. In the show, he and his friends would complete wild bucket list tasks (like playing basketball with President Obama and kissing a stranger in Times Square). Each time they’d cross off one of their own goals, they’d help a stranger achieve their own bucket list aspirations.
This all came about during college, when Ben struggled with severe mental health challenges. In the thick of his crisis, he and his friends discussed what they truly wanted to do before they died. Each one realized they were letting fear, self-doubt, and societal expectations dictate their choices. So, they dropped out of school (and Ben quit the National Rugby Team) to pursue a bucket list they drafted together.
The project quickly grew into a global movement, sparking a ripple effect that motivated millions to take action. It got so big that Ben even appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show! At its core, The Buried Life mission was about living fearlessly, pursuing ambitious goals, and lifting others up—principles that still resonate today.
Since then, Ben has become a motivational speaker and author, sharing his experiences and the lessons he’s learned along the way. His story demonstrates how living boldly and intentionally can transform both your life and the lives of those around you. shows how living boldly and intentionally can transform not just your life, but the lives of those around you.
For more, read our post exploring Bob Nemtin and The Buried Life movement.
What Are Ben Nemtin’s Best Books?
The show is great for inspiration and entertainment, as many already know. But if you want to clarify your own dreams, take bold action, and transform your life into something truly fulfilling, you need the book.
It blends personal stories, actionable exercises, and insights into mindset, resilience, and building meaningful connections. If you’re ready to achieve your personal goals and see the world differently, add this New York Times bestseller to your must-read list.
Curious about the process of publishing What Do You Want to Do Before You Die? Listen to Ben discuss writing a book on the Him & Her Show.
Ben has only one true “book,” but he also released a guided journal inspired by The Buried Life. This journal acts as a companion to What Do You Want to Do Before You Die?, offering a structured approach to clarify, plan, and track your pursuits. Unlike a typical journal, it’s designed to help you take steps toward achieving your goals and finding inspiration through action.
Why get the journal? Research shows that when you write down and share your goals with others, you’re 77% more likely to achieve them. And with the journal, you don’t just list items and call it a day. It actually shows you how to plan your journey and reach your target destination, which increases your chances of success even more. If you need help getting started, listen to Ben guide you through creating your bucket list on the TSC podcast.
Ben Nemtin shows us that finding purpose is all about taking that first fearless step.
The Buried Life mission is more than just a show or a bucket list. It’s a philosophy of living boldly, taking action, and helping others. Whether you were inspired by the show or one of his podcast appearances, his book is an essential guide for anyone ready to make a meaningful change in their life. It’s one of the best books successful people read! So, cozy up with a non-toxic candle, dim the lights, and dive into What Do You Want to Do Before You Die? Your next big adventure starts here.
For more book recommendations, browse Lauryn’s Goodreads and read our other self-improvement book reviews: