Jack Boken, known as Happy Jack, is a yoga teacher, speaker, and spiritual guide whose journey from addiction to devotion has inspired thousands. Through Happy Jack Yoga, he has built a global community focused on healing, connection, and yoga practice. His path has been one of continuous transformation, from temple life to the halls of Harvard, leading to a deep engagement with Bhakti philosophy and some of its leading practitioners. Now, as he nears graduation, he continues to bridge yoga, academia, and spirituality through initiatives like the Bhakti Yoga Conference, a global event bringing together scholars, yogis, and spiritual leaders. 

Born and raised in Canada, Jack’s early years were not marked by the spiritual depth that defines his life today. Instead, he found himself caught in the grip of substance abuse, struggling to find meaning and purpose. “There was a time when I was lost in addiction,” he recalled. “I lost relationships, my health suffered, and I reached a point where I didn’t recognize myself anymore. I woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and didn’t know who I was. That was the moment I realized I needed to change.” That change came in the form of yoga. What began as a physical practice soon evolved into something far deeper – an avenue for healing, self-discovery, and ultimately, devotion.

As he deepened his practice, Jack became a certified yoga instructor and began teaching around the world. Through Happy Jack Yoga, his training programs and retreats have reached thousands, blending traditional yoga principles with a focus on emotional well-being and inner connection. But something was missing. “I always felt there was more,” he explained. “Yoga helped me heal, but it was Bhakti that gave me a purpose. It was no longer just about me – it was about service, about love, about connection.”

His introduction to Bhakti yoga led him to immerse himself in temple life, spending time at the Govardhan Eco Village and eventually studying at Harvard University. “I never thought I’d be in an academic setting like Harvard,” he admitted. “But when I started studying Sanskrit, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Upanishads, I realized this was where I needed to be.”

Part of his academic experience included living at the Boston ISKCON temple and engaging in fieldwork that connected his studies with real-world applications. “I was actually able to get academic credit for living in the temple,” he laughed. “It was a unique experience, blending rigorous academic study with the hands-on practice of Bhakti.”

As he nears graduation, Jack stands at a crossroads. Multiple paths lie ahead – perhaps opening a small yoga ashram in the Canadian countryside, or even pursuing a PhD, a possibility encouraged by scholars at the Oxford Center for Hindu Studies. “I don’t have all the answers yet,” he said. “But I trust that Krishna is guiding me. Every step of the way, I’ve been led to exactly where I need to be.”

One of his most ambitious projects to date is the Bhakti Yoga Conference. As part of his final academic project, he sought to create something beyond a research paper – something that would bring people together. “I’ve always believed in learning through experience,” he explained. “So instead of writing another paper, I wanted to create a platform for meaningful dialogue.”

That space has taken the form of a virtual series featuring 50 speakers – monks, scholars, yogis, musicians, scientists, and business leaders – culminating in a grand finale on April 11th, 2025. The highlight of the event will be a conversation between two individuals who have deeply influenced his path: his academic advisor, Father Dr. Francis Clooney, and His Holiness Radhanath Swami. “Bringing them together again felt important,” Jack said. “Both of them have dedicated their lives to service and devotion, and I believe their dialogue will inspire so many.”

The conference has drawn a diverse audience, from yoga practitioners and academics to devoted Bhakti practitioners. “It’s amazing to see how many different people are coming together,” Jack said. “Yogis, scholars, devotees – everyone finding common ground in spiritual inquiry.”

Jack’s work continues to evolve, but at its core, his mission remains simple: to serve, to share, and to uplift. “I’m just a student on this path,” he acknowledged. “I’m working on myself every day, trying to deepen my practice and serve in whatever way I can.”

Registration remains open for those interested in joining the Bhakti Yoga Conference. “It’s free, and it’s been an amazing journey so far,” Jack said. “We’d love to have you with us.”

From battling addiction to guiding others in their own spiritual journeys, Jack Boken’s story is one of resilience, faith, and a deepening commitment to Bhakti yoga. As he looks ahead, one thing is clear – his journey is far from over.

Readers can find out more and keep up with Happy Jack and his work online through his website, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.