"Whats This Tao All About?" is a beginner's guide to Taoism and the Tao Te Ching hosted by Dr. Carl Totton a Tao master, member of the Martial Arts Hall of Fame, and Doctor of Psychology. The co-host is Tod Perry, the host of the popular comedy podcasts Low Budget FM, Far Out! and The Original Kings…
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The What's This Tao All About? podcast is a valuable resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of Daoism and the teachings of the Tao Te Ching. Hosted by Dr. Carl Totten and Tod Perry, this podcast brings a refreshing energy and lightheartedness to the often complex and philosophical concepts of Daoism. Their enthusiasm and passion for the subject matter shine through in each episode, making it both enjoyable and accessible for listeners.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is how Dr. Totten and Tod Perry are able to break down the teachings of Daoism in a way that is relatable and practical. They provide listeners with tangible tools and techniques to apply in their daily lives, such as putting thoughts in a bubble or engaging in meditations. This practical approach sets this podcast apart from others that may focus solely on theory and philosophy.
Furthermore, the chemistry between Dr. Totten and Tod Perry is evident throughout each episode. They have a great dynamic that keeps the conversation engaging and entertaining. Tod's perspective as someone who knows a little about Taoism but isn't an expert adds a relatability factor that many listeners will appreciate. Together, they create an atmosphere that feels welcoming and inclusive for both longtime Taoism enthusiasts and those new to the practice.
While The What's This Tao All About? podcast has many strengths, one potential downside is that it may not dive as deeply into certain topics as some listeners may desire. With each episode usually spanning around 30 minutes, there may be moments where more in-depth exploration could be beneficial. However, this brevity can also be seen as a positive aspect, as it allows for easy consumption without overwhelming listeners with excessive information.
In conclusion, The What's This Tao All About? podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Daoism or looking for guidance on their spiritual journey. Driven by Dr. Carl Totten and Tod Perry's energy and lightheartedness, this podcast is both enjoyable and educational. It provides practical tools and insights for applying the teachings of Daoism in daily life, making it a valuable resource for listeners seeking personal growth and understanding.
Tod and George start their investigation into the works of Chuang Tzu with Thomas Merton’s translation of his pivotal chapter, “Man of Tao.” We also meet our new co-host, George Thompson and Tod shares an update on Dr. Carl Totton’s health. GoFundMe: Care for Dr. Carl Totton in His Final Days
GoFundMe: Care for Dr. Carl Totton in His Final Days Tod shares an update on Dr. Totton’s health, discusses the show’s future, and looks back at Dr. Carl’s thoughts about the circle of life.
Dr. Totton and Tod discuss Erich Fromm’s 1941 exploration into man’s relationship to authority and how to find true freedom. (This is an episode from “Ten Thousand Things,” Dr. Totton and Tod’s podcast available exclusively at Patreon.com/WhatsThisTaoAllAbout.)
This special episode is a compilation of clips from the show where Dr. Carl Totton and Tod Perry discuss the basics of Taoism. In “Taoism” they discuss the big question, “What is Tao?” and dive into the concepts of Wu-Wei, Te, and Pu. They also discuss practices such as meditation and qigong and examine one […]
Dr. Totton and Tod have a rare interview with best-selling author Benjamin Hoff who introduced millions to Taoism with his popular books “The Tao of Pooh” and “Te of Piglet.” Now, after a nearly 30-year hiatus, Hoff is back with “The Eternal Tao te Ching: The Philosophical Masterwork of Taoism and its Relevance Today.” In […]
Dr. Totton shares how his training in Taoist practices has helped him overcome a series of strokes. Later, he shares his new acronym for decision-making in-the-moment, “L.E.A.P.”
Dr. Totton and Tod breeze through three more chapters of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Tod shares an update of the stabbing that happened outside of the Taoist Institute. Later, Dr. Totton shares his thoughts on how we can overcome trauma associated with COVID-19 and we break down Chapter 70 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Dr. Totton shares his thoughts on how we can live in the now instead of being focused on the past or future. Later, we discuss how sages communicate on a deeper, non-verbal level.
Lieh Tzu wrote a thought-provoking parable on how we should view what’s normal versus abnormal. Later, a listener has questions about chakras and chapter 37 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
The show opens with a discussion on naturalness inspired by a chapter in “Lieh Tzu.” Later, a listener asks how one can act outside of the Tao which dovetails nicely into a discussion on Chapter 34, which is about the nature of Tao.
The New York Times had a great article on why Chuang Tzu was one of the first philosophers to embrace disability, Dr. Totton and Tod discuss. Later, a listener has a questions about guns, and we take a deep dive into Chapter 32 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Tod thinks the Tao sends mixed messages about the concept of self-discipline, so Dr. Totton is here to clear things up. Later, a voice message from a listener in Australia and a breakdown of Chapter 7 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
On this very special episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jane English, the co-creator of popular translations of “Tao Te Ching” and “Inner Chapters.” Here, we discuss her new book “Rainbow of Tao” and her life and work with Gia Fu-Feng. You can buy her new book “Rainbow of Tao” on her website. […]
Dr. Totton and Tod discuss a recent New York Times article on Taoism and death. Later, we dig into Chuang Tzu’s “Man of Tao” and learn why the “greatest person is nobody.”
A listener writes in asking about how to manage his strong emotions, so Dr. Totton responds with some solutions to help him find balance. Later, we take a look at chapter 79 of the “Tao Te Ching” which deals with reciprocity.
Psychologist Jordan Peterson is one of today’s most popular and controversial public intellectuals, and he talks about Taoism, a lot. Here, we take a look at his views on the Tao to see if he really knows what this Tao is all about. Later, a listener wants to know how it’s possible to act out […]
Dr. Totton and Tod go over Edward Slingerland’s tips to incorporate wu-wei into your life. Later, a listener wants to know that the Tao would look like personified, and Chaptern71 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
A listener writes in asking about how he can climb the corporate ladder while still living in accords with Taoist principals. Later, Dr. Totton and Tod take a look at Thomas Merton’s translation of Chuang-Tzu’s “Action vs. non-Action.”
Dr. Totton shares some self-care techniques to keep you healthy and happy during trying times
In a world that teaches us to see things in black and white, Taoists prefer a more ambiguous view of the world. What are the benefits? Later, a listener asks Dr. Totton’s thoughts on education, Tod talks discusses his interview with Jane Goodall, and Chapter 69 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Dr. Totton shows us how to live a life where we accept and experience everything. Later, Chuang Tzu’s funeral, and Chapter 77 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Tod and Dr. T go through a list of Chuang-Tzu’s most memorable, profound, and funny quotes. Also, chapter 67 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Dr. Totton provides some practices to help people dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. We also discuss the Taoist idea of free will and break down chapter 80 of the “Tao Te Ching.” Right click to download a .doc of Dr. Totton’s”10-Day Gong.” >>
The dynamic duo of Dr. Totton and Tod dig deep into Alan Watts’ ‘Backwards Law.’ They also take a look into chapter 65 of the “Tao Te Ching” and touch on a controversial practice known as “sunning.”
Dr. Totton and Tod discuss how gratitude can dramatically improve our lives. Also, they dive deep into Chapter 64 of the “Tao Te Ching” and discuss how it relates to achieving goals.
Tod and Dr. Totton review Livia Kohn’s translation of Chuang Tzu to understand how to reach the ultimate state of oblivion. Also, there’s some drama at the weed shop outside the Taoist temple.
A listener writes in asking about how to “confront darkness.” Later, Dr. Totton and Tod discuss Chapter 41 of the “Tao Te Ching” and the art of “not joining the 27 Club.”
Dr. Totton explains how we can live a more simple, fulfilling life by reducing our karmic footprints. Also, Chapter 48 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Dr. Totton and Tod discuss how Taoist philosophy can help us manage our desires and gain self-control. Later, chapter 29 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Dr. Totton uses his vast knowledge of psychology and the Tao to discuss anxiety. Also, a few chapters from the good book.
Get to know a bit about the third most important author in the Taoist cannon.
“The Empty Boat” is a powerful parable by Chuang-Tzu, Dr. Totton and Tod take a deep dive to figure out what it means. Later, a listener asks a question about prayer.
On this show we discuss what Lao Tzu has to say about happiness and delve semi-deep into chapters 46 and 47 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Dr. Totton digs deep into psychologist Carl Jung and his deep connection to the Tao. Later, we crack open the “Tao Te Ching” and investigate Chapter 44.
Dr. Totton and Tod consult the wisdom of “The Big Lebowski”-inspired “Dude De Ching” to discuss societal organization and chapter 35 of the “Tao Te Ching.” Also, a listener writes in asking how to feel the Tao.
Dr. Totton and Tod discuss Tzu-Jan which is known as the “heart of the Tao” and give some Taoist perspective on the environment.
What is the basis for Taoist morality? Dr. Totton and Tod take a look into the moral principals of Taoist thought. Later, an examination of Chapter 28 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Dr. Totton shares some techniquesto help us cleanse our minds and free ourselves from attachment. Later, Chapter 45 of the “Tao Te Ching.” Right click to download The Mind, Cleaning, Karma, and Life.
From a Taoist perspective, what is the meaning of life? Dr. Totton and Tod attempt to address this massive question in under 20 minutes. Later, chapter 38 of the “Tao Te Ching” a verse that Dr. Totton refers to as a “power chapter.”
How do you really find your “true self”? Does such a thing really exist? Dr. Totton and Tod examine the idea from a Taoist perspective.
Dr. Totton has created a ten-day gong to help people become more in touch with themselves and the Tao. Later, Dr. Totton and Tod answer a listener’s question about being in tune with reality. Right click to download a .doc of Dr. Totton’s”10-Day Gong.” >>
Tod and Dr. Totton finish up their discussion on Alan Watts’Tao: The Watercourse Way, reply to a listener who’s having trouble living in these chaotic times, and break open Chapter 10 of the Tao Te Ching.
Alan Watts was one of the first major Taoist philosophers in the Western world. Here, Tod and Dr. Totton dig deep into his book, Tao: The Watercourse Way. Later, they crack open the Tao Te Ching to examine chapter 9.
On this show, we talk address a subject that isn’t often referenced in “The Tao Te Ching”: Love. Later, Tod and Dr. Totton discuss Chapter 39 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Dr. Totton and Tod crack open the pages of “The Te of Piglet,” Benjamin Hoff’s sequel to the “Tao of Pooh.” Later they dissect chapter 25 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Was Lao Tzu an anarchist? Dr. Totton and Tod take a look into the politics of the “Tao Te Ching” on episode 43. “Anarchism and Taoism” by Josh
Dr. Totton and Tod open the show with the story of a dying man who found strength in the final months of life through the Tao. Later, a listener has questions about forgiveness and Chapter 24 of the Tao Te Ching. “Accepting Cancer’s Challenges with a Little Help from the ‘Tao Te Ching'” by Jeffrey […]
On this episode, Dr. Totton and Tod dig deep into chapter 13 of the Tao Te Ching to learn how to embrace disgrace. Also, some thoughts on the not-so-subtle Taoist messages in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
What does Lao-Tzu mean when he talks about balance? Dr. Carl explains in our first episode of the new year. Tod and Dr. Totton also dig deep into Chapter 23 of “The Tao Te Ching.”
Tod’s book review of “Zen and the Art of Archery” sparks a conversation about Zen. Later, Tod and Dr. Totton discuss what Lao Tzu means by “abandoning knowledge.”
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