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The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience
New York Times bestselling author Hanif Abdurraqib spoke to me about taking a leap of faith, the tentpoles of his writing practice, and his recent NBCC award-winning THERE'S ALWAYS THIS YEAR: On Basketball and Ascension. Hanif Abdurraqib is a lauded New York Times bestselling author, recent Winner of the NBCC Award for criticism, and a finalist for the National Book Award for A Little Devil in America. He is also a poet, essayist, cultural critic, contributor for The New Yorker, and a recipient of the MacArthur Foundation “Genius” grant. His latest book, There's Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension, was described by Publishers Weekly, in a Starred Review, as "A triumphant meditation on basketball and belonging…" and named a Best Book of the Year by The New York Times Book Review, Time, The Washington Post, NPR, The Boston Globe, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus Reviews, Book Riot, Electric Lit and many others. Steve James, director of Hoop Dreams, called it, “Mesmerizing ... not only the most original sports book I've ever read but one of the most moving books I've ever read, period.” Hanif's first collection of essays, They Can't Kill Us Until They Kill Us, was named a book of the year by NPR, Esquire, BuzzFeed, O: The Oprah Magazine, Pitchfork, and the Chicago Tribune, among others. [Discover The Writer Files Extra: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at writerfiles.fm] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Hanif Abdurraqib and I discussed: What it's like to be on a book tour for close to a year His superpower as a highly prolific writer Quitting his 9-5 job after squirreling away money from freelancing Building his own poetry curriculum Why his writing routine hasn't changed much over the years Hot takes on the 2025 NBA Playoffs And a lot more! Show Notes: abdurraqib.com There's Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension by Hanif Abdurraqib (Amazon) Hanif Abdurraqib on Facebook Hanif Abdurraqib on Instagram Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, I am once again joined by Lopon Yudron Wangmo, American teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and author of several books including her recent “Clearing the Way to Awakening”. Lopon Yudron Wangmo shares the story of her life, her childhood with a spiritualist mother, anecdotes of childhood psychic explorations in automatic writing and other techniques, and reflects on whether psychic abilities are inherent or cultivated. Lopon Yudron Wangmo recounts how she became a radical lesbian feminist at university, details the social and theoretical aspects of that movement and time, and reveals the surprising choices she made when relating to male Tibetan teachers as a feminist. Lopon Yudron Wangmo also discusses the pitfalls of performing death rites such as phowa for others, explains why she does not emphasise her feminism and politics in her dharma teaching, and considers the healing power of reparenting by taking the guru as a father figure. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep309-my-radical-life-lopon-yudron-wangmo-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … 01:08 - Yudron's unusual spiritualist, new age mother 03:50 - Lawyer father 04:57 - Early attraction to Tibetan Buddhism 06:19 - Likelihood of past life connections 07:11 - Early interests in environmentalism and solar energy 08:51 - Psychic readings, automatic writing, and hands-on healing 10:06 - Are psychic powers gifts or can they be cultivated? 12:09 - More stories of Yudron's psychic mother 14:28 - Yudron reflects on her mother's final years and death 17:06 - Performing phowa and other death practices for others 18:21 - Remarkable death of Yudron's father 19:28 - Affluent background affords opportunities for spiritual seeking 21:27 - Going to university and becoming a radical lesbian feminist 22:54 - Impressed by Yeshe Tsogyal's life story and other female practitioners 25:34 - Letting go of radical feminism to pursue the dharma 26:21 - Relating to male Tibetan teachers as a feminist 27:26 - What attracted Yudron to radical lesbian feminism 30:40 - Today's backlash against feminism 33:00 - Conflicting theoretical and philosophical approaches to radical feminism 35:11 - United in building woman power 37:12 - Working on anger and Vajrakīlāya practice 41:27 - Giving up female chauvinism and relating to male Tibetan lamas 43:49 - Stories of great female practitioners 44:24 - Being typecast as an angry feminist 45:24 - Why Yudron doesn't criticise Tibetan culture 46:02 - Rage about abuse of women by Lamas 46:33 - Yudron's desire to teach pure dharma and not mix in her politics 49:43 - Why Yudron didn't challenge her lamas with feminist ideas 5149 - The lama as a father figure, reparenting, and the influence of Yudron's lamas 54:10 - Dropping one's storyline and going beyond trivialities 55:48 - Motivated to counteract abusive lamas 58:05 - Americans are discouraged from teaching Tibetan Buddhism 58:51 - What to look for in a dharma teacher 01:00:55 - Sycophants vs finding the inner lama 01:02:27 - Fading interest in Tibetan Buddhism 01:03:26 - Dharma teachers should be full time 01:04:16 - The ideal amount of money and pastoralist rhythms 01:05:34 - Two extremes of converts 01:07:22 - Becoming soft 01:08:26 - Dharma teachers vs mindfulness teachers 01:09:53 - Yudron reflects on Theravada meditation and the appeal of Sharon Salzberg 01:11:35 - Prophecies of an impending dark age 01:12:38 - Simplifying dharma teaching 01:15:36 - Yudron asks for Steve's opinion 01:16:43 - Ben Joffe and relating with spirits 01:17:36 - Steve reflects on the five perfections 01:18:38 - Yudron on the pros and cons of ritual … Previous episode with Lopon Yudron Wangmo: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=yudron To find our more about Lopon Yudron Wangmo, visit: - https://www.yudronwangmo.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I host a dialogue between Stephen Snyder, meditation teacher and author, and Mark Mininberg, Zen master and dharma heir to Bernie Glassman. Stephen and Mark discuss their new podcast interview series, “Anatomy of Awakening”, in which they engage in peer-to-peer trialogue with other teachers of enlightenment. Stephen and Mark reveal why they chose the teachers they have featured, the degree to which various claims to spiritual attainment played a part in their selection, and how they navigated conversations with teachers from other Buddhist sects. Stephen and Mark reflect on the increase in meditation teachers who claim spiritual awakening, recall their own trainings in Zen communities in which discussion of enlightenment was taboo, and emphasise the need for rigorous training under an experienced guide. Stephen and Mark also warn about teachers who overestimate their abilities, offer suggestions to aspiring gurus, and emphasis the whole body commitment required to truly attain Buddhist awakening. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep308-anatomy-of-awakening-stephen-snyder-mark-mininberg Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:12 - Anatomy of Awakening 03:12 - How did Stephen and Mark decide which teachers to interview? 05:43 - Are these teachers enlightened? 06:13 - Enlightenment doesn't belong to anybody 07:36 - A synergy of awakening 08:21 - How can you even tell if someone is enlightened? 09:46 - Teachers who promote themselves as teaching awakening 10:16 - No teacher is flawless 10:56 - The danger of speaking openly about awakening 12:14 - Buddhism and awakening traditions are evolving in the West 14:54 - Why are more teachers claiming enlightenment? 16:29 - Changes in American Buddhism and the New Age since the 70s 18:15 - The lost virtue of humility 19:50 The Absolute awakens to Itself 20:49 - Going public with ones's awakening 22:59 - Holding this life in reverence 24:05 - Signs of a mature practice 26:02 - Becoming a meditation teacher 28:11 - The true job of a teacher 30:47 - Teachers should not overestimate their level 34:35 - Ways to know you are in too deep as a teacher 35:45 - Teachers need teachers 37:50 - Is there any substitute for a 1-1 relationship with a teacher 39:54 - Humility and the truth a spouse sees 41:04 - People assume their teacher is perfect 41:47 - Mark's conservative Zen training 43:00 - Customer services spirituality 45:08 - Holding a teacher in reverence 47:13 - The pitfalls of leadership by committee 49:51 - Awakening is a whole body commitment 54:29 - Surprises when meeting enlightenment teachers 57:20 - Peer to peer trialogues 58:12 - How to find the interview series 59:24 - Host and guest 01:00:14 - Praise for the Guru Viking Podcast … Previous episodes with Stephen Snyder: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=snyder To purchase Anatomy of Awakening visit: - https://awakeningdharma.org/anatomy-of-awakening/ GV Podcast receives no affiliate commission from your purchase. … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses the connection between love and money, how to heal the inner child, clarifies a participant's mother-pattern, and reflects on the challenges faced by a new counsellor when dealing with others' dysfunction. 00:00 - Love, money, and a mother's love 02:02 - Healing ideologies vs the reality of being a human 03:51 - Growing up the frightened inner child 08:12 - Integrating sub personalities 09:22 - A case study of relational dysfunction 10:21 - Advice for a new counsellor Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I host a dialogue between Lama Justin von Bujdoss and Charlie Morley. Justin and Charlie share their extensive experience as modern teachers of Vajrayana, compare notes on the state of Tantra in the West, and reflect on the responsibility of openly teaching previously restricted, esoteric practices. Justin and Charlie wrestle with the tension between conserving traditional religious forms and innovating to meet today's moral sensibilities and technological currents. They suggest changes they would like to see in both Asian Buddhist cultures and Western society, consider the pros and cons of long meditation retreats in today's world, and call for hierarchical equality for women practitioners and teachers. I invite Justin and Charlie to reveal the underlying principles that guide their desired reforms and consider the pitfalls of advocating change without awareness of one's guiding rationale. Justin and Charlie also discuss the role of neuroscience in the furthering of Buddhist understanding, reveal the potential trauma-healing power of dream yoga and dark retreat, and share their thoughts on the impact of fatherhood on one's religious life. … www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. 01:52 - State of the Dharma in 2025 06:12 - Secret practices now widely available 09:37 - Whiteness and misogyny 10:02 - Why are secret practices openly taught? 11:49 - Conservatism is the achilles heel of the Karma Kagyu sect 12:23 - Controversy about online empowerments 14:32 - Understanding emptiness 16:00 - Dream empowerments 17:48 - Technology and survival of Buddhism 19:22 - Amulets of protection 21:16 - 4th turning of the wheel of Dharma 23:58 - Trauma, racism, and classism, refugees 25:54 - Working for the NYC Department of Corrections 28:41 - Potential of dream yoga and dark retreat for healing trauma 29:19 - Why don't Tibetan lamas talk about trauma? 29:55 - Cultural overlay, Tibetan identity, and religion 32:44 - Western calls for reform vs traditional Tibetan values 48:53 - Conservatism vs reform 51:43 - Real religion vs mere cultural overlay 52:31 - N vs 3-year retreat 58:14 - Different versions of ngondro 01:02:12 - Classical Indian approaches to tantra 01:03:12 - How to reform without losing the spirit of the religion 01:04:28 - The energy of the tradition 01:06:28 - Justin's desire for social change in Vajrayana 01:08:41 - Wisdom keeper vs lineage holder 01:12:51 - 2-way revolution 01:14:20 - How to decide what should be changed vs what should be preserved 01:18:32 - Charlie's collaboration with Choje Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche 01:22:05 - Charlie criticises misogyny in Tibetan Buddhism 01:23:50 - Transgender and non-binary people in Himalayan Buddhist contexts 01:27:49 - Religious traditions are diverse and evolving 01:30:11 - Yogis and practice results 01:33:41 - Fatherhood and Dharma 01:36:37 - Long retreats are not important if you can rest in rigpa 01:39:29 - Dharma Dads workshop 01:42:09 - How important is ordination? 01:43:31 - Why is ordination so emphasised? 01:46:04 - Justin almost became a monk 01:48:22 - Advice for parents 01:49:14 - Charlie reflects on impending fatherhood and not being a monk 01:50:38 - Steve's concluding remarks 01:51:11 - Steve urges a deeper investigation into motives behind advocacy for change 01:52:01 - Culture and Dharma essence 01:53:01 - Charlie's concluding remarks and encouragement for practitioners 01:54:04 - Justin's concluding remarks 01:54:15 - Praise for Guru Viking Podcast, and encouragement to practitioners … Previous episodes with Justin: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=bujdoss Previous episode with Charlie: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=morley … Find out more about Justin: - https://justinvonbujdoss.com/ Find out more about Charlie: - http://www.charliemorley.com/ … For more interviews: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Hola Gerardo aquí en otro episodio de Simplemente Yo; La selección de esta semana es Hoop Dreams, es una película documental estadounidense de 1994 dirigida por Steve James y producida por Frederick Marx, James y Peter Gilbert, con Kartemquin Films. Plot: Una película que sigue las vidas de dos muchachos del centro de Chicago que luchan por convertirse en jugadores de baloncesto universitarios en su camino hacia la profesión. Espero que lo disfruten ;) Información adicional del podcast: Enlace del website official de Filmic Notion Podcast: https://filmicnotionpod.com/ Enlace a nuestra página de Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/446nl
In this episode I am joined by Professor Mara Einstein, digital marketing critic; author and public speaker on cult brands and influencer scams; and tenured professor of media studies at Queens College (CUNY). Mara discusses her latest book “Hoodwinked: How Marketers Use the Same Tactics as Cults”, warns about manipulative marketing techniques used in media and religions, details the 9 steps of cult recruitment, and shares case studies of religious marketing models. Mara recalls her own life journey from an early interest in religions and cults, her path through academia studying religion and marketing, and her own discipleship under and subsequent disillusionment with spiritual teacher and political activist Marianne Williamson. Mara also considers religion as a product, analyses stealth Buddhism and prosperity gospel preachers, and offers her own thoughts on how religious groups can market themselves more ethically. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep306-marketing-tactics-of-religions-cults-prof-mara-einstein Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Hoodwinked, 01:21 - Religion as a product 02:17 - Early interest in religion and cults 03:36 - PhD about religion and policy 05:35 - Televangelists and the Passion of the Christ 06:52 - The Purpose Driven Church marketing 07:34 - The secularisation theory and why the US bucks the trend 08:13 - Joel Osteen vs Oprah Winfrey 09:34 - Why do secular organisations use religious themes? 11:41 - Cults and Multi-level marketing 13:14 - Brand cults such as Apple 14:46 - Marketing Hoodwinked 1536 - Social media vs television advertising 16:37 - Rage farming, increased anxiety, and becoming susceptible to messaging 20:20 - Brand purchases as expressions of individual identity 21:42 - Selling the sacred, how religion and marketing intersects 25:03 - Mara's own religious journey through Judaism and the New Age 26:31 - Becoming a follower of Marianne Williamson 27:01 - Disillusioned by religion 27:13 - Studying evangelicals 27:58 - Interviewing Ralph White 28:29 - Mara analyses her own journey to becoming a follower of Marianne Williamson 32:00 - World Nutella Day 34:18 - Going deeper with Marianne Williamson 36:10 - 9 steps of cult recruitment 36:47 - Targeting the vulnerable 40:26 - Upselling and the Kabbalah Centre 42:02 - Love-bombing 43:14 - Tough love 44:34 - Creation of in and out groups 46:30 - Severe repercussions for leaving 47:22 - American Evangelism 49:33 - How should religions market themselves with integrity? 49:52 - “He Gets Us” and the Alpha Course 52:07 -2 year mission trips don't work 52:41 - The best marketing is to live the message 54:49 - Shady marketing tactics to avoid 56:22 - Beware of panacea answers 57:02 - Beware the charismatic leader 57:56 - How would Mara advice a religious group to use marketing ethically? 59:33 - Know your target audience 01:01:13 - The brilliance of Rick Warren's consumer research driven marketing 01:02:47 - Is stealth Buddhism shady marketing? 01:04:44 - Bait and switch of secular mindfulness 01:06:34 - Capitalist meditation 01:07:42 - Is MBSR a bait and switch? 01:09:09 - Mara's advice for those selling corporate mindfulness 01:10:15 - Transparency vs deception 01:12:23 - Make it ok to question and ok to leave 01:13:31 - Hoodwinked 01:14:15 - Pervasiveness of cults 01:15:13 - Influencers and a spectrum of cults 01:16:29 - Teal Swan and lifestyle marketing 01:17:21 - Anyone can be pulled into a cult … To find our more about Professor Mara Einstein, visit: - https://www.drmaraeinstein.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses how over come rejection, anger, and resentment; how to introduce variety into your relationship, and why energy leaks are destroying your productivity. 00:00 - Energy leaks and productivity hacks 01:26 - Toggle and Freedom 03:50 - How to deal with resentment 05:58 - Variety and repeatability 06:38 - The purpose of your relationship 08:00 - How to do I stop being angry at my partner 14:20 - Why do I feel so sad? 14:48 - Overcoming in rejection in relationship Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
This trialogue is the first in a series exploring the latest interdisciplinary research into tantric completion stage practices such as yogas of dream, sleep, and death. Dr Michael Sheehy is the Director of Research at the Contemplative Sciences Center in the Department of Religious Studies in the University of Virginia. Dr Tawni Tidwell is a biocultural anthropologist and doctor of traditional Tibetan medicine. Dr Julian Schott is an Indologist, Tibetologist, and assistant professor at the University of Vienna. Dr Sheehy shares his cutting edge research into the tantric completion stage yogas of dream and sleep, reveals the implication of new directions in neuroscience and micro-phenomenology, and warns of the danger of esoteric practices becoming extinct. Dr Sheehy proposes a two-way split in the future of religious practice, Dr Tidwell reflects on the decline in the number of spiritual masters, and Dr Schott considers the real meaning of secrecy in Tibetan tantra. Video version: www.guruviking.com Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:22 - Current research about yogic practices of dream and sleep 02:46 - Overview of Tibet and Indian dream and sleep practices 04:15 - Michael's scientific studies of yogic lucid dreaming practice 07:53 - Opening a 2-way channel of communication between dreamer and scientist 08:46 - Rigorous micro-phenomenology 10:04 - Comparisons with classic descriptions and prescriptions found in Tibetan dream manuals 11:34 - Dreams are unpredictable spaces 13:53 - Understanding lucidity 16:27 - Psychological flexibility, imaginal simulation, and somatic awareness 22:28 - The impact of dream yoga on daily life 23:59 - 6 similes of reality and dream yoga 26:26 - Lucid waking practices & the illusory body 29:45 - 2-fold practice curriculum of day and night 31:16 - A devastating pitfall 32:07 - New ways to amplify practice 35:38 - Designing virtual reality simulations for dream yoga exercises 39:49 - Intersections with psychedelic research 42:16 - 2 ways to approach contemplative practice 47:05 - Generating interdisciplinary hypotheses 48:14 - Utilising VR meditations as practice supports 52:37 - Drawing on traditional expertise 53:27 - Bringing traditional practice categories into neuroscience research 55:27 - Neuroscience as the next level of translation 59:40 - Michael challenges ahistorical perspectives; Tibetan tradition has been highly experimental 01:02:32 - Community-based partnerships 01:05:02 - What does it mean that a practice is “secret”? 01:07:01 - The body in tantric traditions and secularising tantra 01:09:33 - A 2-way split in the global culture of religious practice 01:12:10 - Esoteric traditions are in danger 01:16:56 - Bold experimentation is historically consonant with the tradition 01:18:23 - Great masters are decreasing in number 01:23:17 - Esoteric practices have a coherent logic 01:26:22 - Traditional practices have undergone evolution and change 01:28:36 - Ethics of scholar-practitioners To find our more about the panel, visit: - https://michaelrsheehy.com/ - https://centerhealthyminds.org/about/people/tawni-tidwell - https://stb.univie.ac.at/en/about-us/team/julian-schott/user/schottj85/inum/1083/backpid/198178/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Tulku Sherab Dorje, Buddhist teacher, translator, and author of scholarly and popular books about Tibetan Buddhism. Tulku Sherdor reflects on the changes in the spiritual journey over a lifetime, whether or not the world is becoming more turbulent, and the effects of ageing on yogic practice and view. Tulku Sherdor explains why mind training is superior to mystical experiences, emphasises the reality of impermanence, and shares the best tests of successful retreat and spiritual growth. Tulku Sherdor also warns about the prognosis of tulkus who do not conduct extensive retreat; critiques the shortcomings of the 3-year retreat model as conducted in the West; and details the temptations for dharma teachers in pleasure, profit, praise, and popularity. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep304-crumbs-from-the-parrots-beak-tulku-sherdor Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Crumbs from the Parrot's Beak 02:43 - The spiritual journey and the phases of life 04:24 - Is the world becoming more turbulent? 05:56 - The effects of ageing on spiritual practice 07:53 - How to relate to physical limitations 09:56 - Ambition for enlightenment 12:26 - This is more fundamental than Bodhicitta 13:23 - Reality of impermanence 15:20 - The unique challenges of intensive practice and retreat 18:39 - Distinguishing appearance from substance 19:41 - The title “lama” is not a guarantee of quality 21:12 - The best proof of progress 23:17 - The role of a demanding retreat schedule 26:24 - Mature practice 28:03 - Tulkus must conduct extensive retreat but sometimes don't 30:28 - Prognosis for high lamas who don't do extensive retreat 32:30 - Hopes for corrections in the tulku system 34:58 - The Tibetan Buddhist tradition is unique and precious 35:41 - Signs of a successful retreat 38:01 - Completing a 3 year retreat is not a guarantee of quality 38:56 - Substandard Western 3 year retreats 40:49 - Pre-1950s Tibet and the renunciate yogi system 46:11 - Today's economic challenges when practicing the dharma 49:47 - Mind training is superior to glimpses of the nature of mind 55:45 - The best test of success in practice 57:00 - Does practice ever get easier? 01:01:28 - The 4 payoffs: pleasure, profit, praise, popularity 01:06:49 - Guru devotion and the guru relationship 01:12:31 - A story about Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche 01:14:41- Peace Prayer Gathering in June 2025 … Previous episode with Tulku Sherdor: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep276-canadian-tulku-translator-tulku-sherab-dorje To find our more about Tulku Sherdor, visit: - https://blazingwisdom.org/tulku-sherab-dorje/ - https://dharmakayacenter.org/all-programs/2637/sadhana-practice-expanding-our-compassion-for-all-beings/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKAGaRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXZEJ2cmRmb0U3VTExUWpmAR729nsWXoI6VZEb9GkrzCeajdhS6ze_zGrQZUTvLpsphQJQHPSdJABxQ0brag_aem_dWMYHIGmMRk_dxeWxEuL7A For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Plongée dans les coulisses du Droit de Tuer (The Exterminator), réalisé par James Glickenhaus et porté par Robert Ginty et Steve James. Sorti en France en 1982, ce film de série B ultra-violent a marqué toute une génération de cinéphiles et est rapidement devenu culte dans les vidéoclubs. Véritable reflet d'une époque marquée par la défiance envers les institutions et la montée de l'insécurité urbaine, Le Droit de Tuer aborde de front le thème explosif de l'auto-justice — un sujet qui, plus de quarante ans après, continue de diviser et d'interroger.
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses the best way to learn tantra, what it means to be a well matched couple, the art and practice of ecstatic intimacy, how to live a joyous life, and the jar exercise. 00:00 - Well matched couples 02:01 - The best way to learn tantra 03:24 - The preliminaries and essence of tantric intimacy 07:00 - Spontaneous ecstasy and practices of bliss 08:48 - Central channel and NLMM 10:19 - Code words and quick communication 12:39 - How to live a joyous life 14:48 - The jar exercise Buy Michaela's Relationship Course: https://www.michaelaboehm.com/workshops/instant-access-the-untamed-heart-the-relationship-course/ Attend the Relationship Bootcamps in: - London, 28-29th June - https://www.michaelaboehm.com/workshops/june-28-29-the-relationship-bootcamp-weekend-intensive-london/ - Ojai, California, 19-21th September - https://www.michaelaboehm.com/workshops/september-19-21-the-relationship-bootcamp-a-3-day-intensive/ For retreats, workshops, teacher trainings and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode, I am joined by Lopon Yudron Wangmo, American teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and author of several books including her recent “Clearing the Way to Awakening”. Lopon Yudron Wangmo offers an analysis of the shortcomings of today's Buddhist literature, details the writing process for “Clearing the Way to Awakening”, and reveals the stylistic and language choices she made to better reach the average reader. Lopon Yudron Wangmo describes the power of the ngondro preliminary practices of Tibetan Buddhism and explains the techniques of mantra recitation, prostrations, mandala offerings, bodhicitta generation, tummo, śamata, and more. Lopon Yudron Wangmo extols the benefits of turning away from worldly life and towards religion, reports the fruits of her own practice such as profound peace and joy, warns about the danger of following a guru without first testing him, and advises on how to work with the supernatural dimension of Buddhism. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep303-clearing-the-way-to-awakening-lopon-yudron-wangmo Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Clearing the Way to Awakening 01:52 - The problem with today's Buddhist literature 03:20 - Sublime topics 04:22 - Style considerations for today's reading level 06:03 - Learning to write more simply for the average reader 07:18 - Patrul Rinpoche and avoiding imitation 08:30 - What is awakening? 09:09 - Local context in Buddhist cultures 10:34 - Buddha's description of his awakening 12:37 - Working with the supernatural dimension of Buddhism 14:25 - The ālaya vijñāna and the unconscious mind 17:34 - Buddha nature vs being driven and unconscious 18:57 - Gradualist vs subitist awakening 20:22 - The role of ngondro and the power of visualisation 22:51 - The power of recitation 24:05 - The power of prostrations 26:17 - The power of maṇḍala offerings 28:13 - Why esoteric practices are not appropriate for most people 30:00 - The secrets to completing your ngondro 32:27 - The importance of motivation 33:15 - The anti-climax of realising the nature of mind 35:33 - Tummo and śamata 36:50 - Origin of the ngondro system + Theravada critique 39:17 - Taking refuge 40:30 - Generating bodhicitta and practicing the four immeasurables 41:12 - Vajrasattva and purification practice 42:21 - Merit making and guru yoga 44:06 - If you don't like it, don't practice it 45:04 - Yudron asks for Steve's opinion 46:58 - Choose your Buddhism 48:23 - Disillusionment with saṃsāra and choosing Buddhism later in life 50:03 - The power of choice and acquired ADHD 51:43 - Get on it 52:38 - The power of disillusionment and renunciation 55:07 - The peace and joy of turning away from the world 57:41 - The suffering of loneliness and the fruits of practice 01:00:09 - The mechanism of spiritual contentment 01:02:04 - Yudron on the importance of disclosing attainments 01:03:28 - Spiritual saints 01:04:13 - Political lamas and checking out gurus 01:05:32 - Personal relationship with the guru 01:07:13 - We're all devoted to something 01:09:09 - Pitfalls of ngondro: anxiety, OCD, depression, and PTSD 01:14:06 - Yudron's struggles with depression and anxiety 01:19:34 - Boomer Buddhists 01:20:04 - Preliminary or foundational? 01:22:06 - Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo's advice about retreat 01:23:38 - Congratulated by Vajrasattva and the ontology of deities 01:26:45 - Spontaneous feelings of love To find out more about Lopon Yudron Wangmo, visit: - https://www.yudronwangmo.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am joined by Rebekah Sturghill, mother, school teacher, and convert to Orthodox Christianity. Rebekah details her upbringing in a Texan evangelical church and how encounters with authoritarianism and questions about her sexuality saw her leave the religion. Rebekah describes a period of passionate teenage atheism before becoming deeply involved in feminist activism beginning in university. Rebekah explains why she remains a feminist but left activism and how, through a powerful visionary experience, she converted to Orthodox Christianity. Rebekah also explores the mechanisms of conversion, considers the line between faith and extremism, and comments on the pros and cons of a new trend of conversions to Orthodox Christianity driven by internet influencers and discussion communities. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep302-my-conversion-to-orthodox-christianity-rebekah-sturghill Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Evangelical Christian upbringing in Texas 04:17 - Studying theology and philosophy at St Johns College 04:38 - Encountering Jesus through reading the Gospels 05:39 - Feminist activism 06:09 - Joining the Orthodox Church 08:18 - Anger at religion and questioning sexuality 11:22 - Authoritarianism in the church 12:26 - Why Rebekah's family left the church 14:05 - Religious community vs contemplative practice 16:19 - Contemplative emphasis in the Orthodox Church 17:10 - Youth groups and community emphasis 18:16 - Radical atheism phase and the impact on family 23:18 - Becoming a feminist activist 25:50 - Questioning feminist theory, struggles with relativism and essentialism 26:52 - Becoming a 2nd wave feminist 28:34 - Influence of the internet on Rebekah's various conversions 31:35 - Conversion or coming home? 33:42 - What feminism really is 35:18 - Frustrations with 3rd wave feminism 40:08 - Why feminist activism? 44:34 - Still a feminist? Which views Rebekah still holds 48:00 - Orthodox Christian view of the individual and equality 49:47 - Are Rebekah's views controversial? 51:43 - In-fighting and leaving activism 54:17 - Religious extremists and extreme activism 55:53 - Losing oneself in extremism 57:50 - Critical mass of buy-in needed for conversion 58:13 - Embracing the dharma or losing oneself? 01:01:46 - CS Lewis' “The Great Divorce” 01:03:36 - Dying to oneself 01:04:54 - Theosis and losing oneself 01:05:42 - Popularity of Orthodox Christianity online, a new wave of converts 01:07:26 - The practice of Orthodoxy Christianity and the supernatural 01:09:05 - Lent 01:09:55 - High profile conversions to Orthodoxy and an internet pipeline 01:11:22 - Rebekah's conversion through relationships and community 01:13:15 - The moment of conversion 01:14:41 - Powerful first conversation with an Orthodox priest … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses the most important relationship skill, why praise is a practice, the art of being with your partner, and how to break cycles of criticism and resentment. 00:00 - The most important relationship skill 01:45 - The practice of praise 02:20 - The art of being with each other 03:23 - Dishwashing, nagging, and endocrine systems 09:11 - How to break cycles of criticism and resentment 14:30 - Couples need meetings 16:30 - Phases of relationship purpose 17:52 - When to see a couples' therapist 18:11 - Michaela's social media influencer clients Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am joined by Lorna Byrne, spiritual teacher and best selling author of “Angels in my Hair”. Lorna describes her childhood in Ireland when she first began to see and interact with angels and souls of the dead, and recalls how she navigated these visionary experiences. Lorna discusses the different types of angels that she sees, as well as other beings such as souls of the deceased, land spirits, elementals and more, and how others might learn to see as she does. Lorna also reflects on feeling the energy of a place; her lifelong experience of being different to others; unusual reactions people have towards her; and the importance of love, hope, and compassion. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep301-angels-in-my-hair-lorna-byrne | Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Growing up different 04:17 - Learning from angels 05:27 - Be your unique self 06:36 - Seeing angels physically 07:50 - Holding things back and confusion about mankind 09:07 - Consulted by clerics, theologians, and academics 10:04 - Is God real? 11:32 - Responses from people all over the world 13:02 - Deep interactions with strangers 15:20 - Lorna's view of human beings 16:39 - Can anyone see angels and spirits? 19:10 - Being open to new knowledge 21:39 - Intertwining of the human body and soul 23:43 - Everything is possible 25:57 - Has Lorna met others who can see angels? 28:32 - People who pretend to see spirits for money 39:37 - Feeling the energy of a place 30:35 - Local traditions, land spirits, and the range of beings Lorna encounters 35:59 - How to see spirits 37:53 - The Spirit of the Water 39:52 - Everything has energy 41:51 - Angel at the Centre of the Earth 43:25 - Detecting the influence of Satan 45:59 - A story of boy soldiers 49:06 - Cycles of abuse 50:12 - Thoughts about the future of mankind 52:50 - Love, hope, and compassion 54:43 - Lorna's retreat centre, Sanctuary … Find our more about Lorna Byrne: - https://lornabyrne.com/ - … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, alchemists, practitioners of Western Esotericism, and authors of ‘Alchemy, The Divine Work'. Katarina and Tommy detail the stages and methods of the spiritual path of Western alchemy. They explain the movement through four phases, describe the operations employed during each, and reveal the signs of progress that indicate success. Katarina and Tommy reveal how to pray to the Madonna, how to purify karma, how to work with fire and emotions such as anger and sadness, the role of tinctures and elixirs, and methods of astral travel and archetypal work. Katarina and Tommy also consider the power of the imagination, the interaction with external alchemical operations and inner personal refinement, and recount stories of entity encounters and reality creation. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep300-the-spiritual-practice-of-alchemy-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - “Alchemy, The Divine Work” 02:30 - Practices of the alchemical path 03:38 - Prima materia and meditation 05:42 - Meditating on alchemical emblems 06:43 - The metaphysics of prima materia consciousness 07:30 - Praying to Black Madonna 08:38 - How to pray 10:07 - Use of the imagination 11:42 - Signs of contact with the Black Madonna 13:44 - Purifying karma and releasing traumas 15:08 - Inhaling suffering and exhaling love 16:50 - Purification and divine providence 19:09 - The Nigredo phase 20:50 - The seven planets and chakras 21:49 - Theosophical ideas about seven governing forces 26:15 - Moving into the Albedo phase 27:11 - Mercurial consciousness 28:22 - Nigredo vs Albedo phases 29:43 - Working with the astral body 30:17 - Work with herbs and creating tinctures 34:18 - An alchemical elixir toast 36:39 - The Citrinitas phase 38:27 - Working with fire 40:16 - Using anger and sadness 41:48 - Death is not the end 43:33 - Reintegrating the Dark Angel 44:04 - The magic of imagination 48:14 - Fourfold processes and the quintessence 49:37 - Making the soul bigger 51:22 - Working with the Egyptian and Gnostic traditions 52:24 - Projecting the four elements 53:53 - Pilgrimages to magical locations 55:19 - Visitations from giants and other beings 57:42 - Meeting inner archetypes in the outer world 59:37 - The Rubedo phase 01:01:41 - Microcosm and macrocosm 1:04:109 - Fasting and insight into the shadow 01:07:51 - Signs of process on the path 01:10:14 - Working at a deeper level 01:11:31 - Katarina's novel manifesting into real life 01:13:41 - Creating your own universe 01:15:25 - Life as a creative project 01:17:23 - Working with the ego 01:19:40 - Death and resurrection 01:20:27 - Bad gurus with siddhi powers 01:22:11 - The power of partnership 01:23:34 - Humility and the flaming heart 01:24:40 - Practice advice for the eager student 01:30:36 - Balance vs obsession 01:33:50 - 10-15 years to a successful white wedding 01:36:32 - Working for the next life … Previous episode with Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep238-alchemy-the-divine-work-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund To find out more about Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, visit: - https://www.alkemiskaakademin.se/eng/about-us/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses how to repattern your life, the widespread effects of a father wound, dealing with unhealthy thoughts, and the powers and limits of positive thinking for physical health. 00:00 - Vulnerability hangover 02:38 - Psychoemotional aftercare 05:32 - How to know when you've gone too far 05:55 - How the brain works and the process of learning 06:36 - Far-reaching effect of a father wound 09:00 - How to work with unhealthy patterns of thinking 09:54 - Michaela's childhood pattern of self-sufficiency 12:28 - New age ideas about negative thinking and disease 14:33 - The power of belief and faith on physical health 15:32 - A key distinction about the limits of positive thinking 17:03 - Teachers who don't know what they're talking about 18:34 - Feeding your demons and soothing your inner child Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
Send us a textYoav Attias is a documentary filmmaker whose projects include Brick City chronicling the inner-workings of Newark, NJ under then-Mayor Cory Booker and CNN's Chicagoland featuring then-mayor Rahm Emanuel. His most recent role is as Director on the new documentary film Fault Lines - which examines the issue of affordable housing in American cities through the prism of several storylines in San Francisco where the housing crisis is especially acute. In this conversation, Yoav talks starting a legal career in South Florida before following his passion to become a documentary filmmaker...what he learned about the politics and challenges facing major American cities working closely around Mayors Cory Booker and Rahm Emanuel...the origin of the Fault Lines film project set in the Bay Area...and a deep dive on the challenges and complexities surrounding the American housing crisis.IN THIS EPISODEYoav's roots in South Florida and why he left a legal career for documentary film-making...Yoav's involvement in the Brick City project that follows Newark politics, including then-Mayor Cory Booker...The documentary that deeply inspired Yoav to enter the field...Yoav's time as showrunner on CNN's Chicagoland project that featured Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel...Yoav's pitch to pols like Rahm Emanuel and Cory Booker to agree to be filmed for hundreds of hours for a documentary project...Yoav's relative optimism versus pessimism regarding the trajectory of the modern major American city...The origin story of his latest project, Fault Lines - a documentary about the housing affordability crisis facing American cities...How the housing process became so broken in cities like San Francisco in the first place...The controversy over 100 proposed affordable housing units in San Francisco's Sunset Neighborhood...How Yoav found housing advocates and a homeless family to participate in Fault Lines...How one local Bay Area elected official found himself caught in a political vice on the issue of affordable housing...Is the housing problem better or worse than Yoav initially thought?The Grateful Dead song that appears toward the end of Fault Lines...Yoav's take on political ad-making from outside of the political industry...The recent political documentary Yoav strongly recommends...AND Mark Benjamin, Anthony Bourdain, Bill Clinton, Todd Davis, Liz Dozier, Fenger High School, field producers, Jerry Garcia, HUD, hippie utopias, Hoop Dreams, hornets' nests, Nate Houghteling, Robert Hunter, Steve James, Flo Kimmerling, Ezra Klein, Marc Levin, Gordon Mar, the Mission, PCE, Section 8 vouchers, Sarah Sherman, toxicology reports, trust-building, undesirables, University of Florida, verité documentaries, Scott Weiner, zoning laws..& more!
In this interview I am once again joined by Mordy Levine, serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author of ‘The Beginner's Guide to Karma' with Lama Lhanang. Mordy discusses the Buddhist doctrine of karma, explores its history in Indian thought, and differentiates the various types of karmic actions and their consequences. Mordy reveals special, esoteric methods to purify bad karma, compares the Tibetan tradition to Zen, and grapples with the importance of motive in karmic justice. Mordy also discusses the six realms, whether Buddhist hell should be understood as a place or a psychological state, and why he believes an understanding of karma is a pathway to true freedom. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep299-karma-mordy-levine-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Why Mordy wrote “The Beginner's Guide to Karma” 02:17 - Understanding of karma regulates human behaviour 03:38 - Creative collaboration with Lama Lhanang 04:48 - A powerful insight about karma and consciousness 06:53 - The history of the doctrine of karma in India 09:50 - Mordy's research into karma, using primary sources 11:50 - Different types of karmic actions and their consequences 13:29 - Selfishness vs selflessness as motive 15:08 - Is intention all? 16:19 - How great masters read karmic history 19:34 - Does Buddhism disincentivise effective action? 21:19 Does self-interest negate efforts to generate good karma? 23:24 - The desire to help others is an exception 26:00 - Motivations are complicated 28:57 - How karma helps us face negative situations 31:25 - The story of the Zen farmer 33:48 - Does the doctrine of karma blame the unfortunate? 36:02 - Explanation without accusation 37:09 - Mordy's message about karma 38:38 - Working the karmic system to reduce negative karmic consequences and accrue merit 41:06 - Esoteric methods to purify negative karma 44:24 - The special power of meditation 45:44 - Does motivation affect the karmic consequence of meditation? 44:34 - Can meditation create negative karma? 48:28 - Generating and dedicating merit 50:45 - Is enlightenment the result of good karma? 52:42 - How to work the karma system to become enlightened 53:43 - What is collective karma? 56:24 - Can we hold groups accountable for their karma? 58:18 - Mordy on Donald Trump 59:41 - Can bad karma send you to hell? 01:02:07 - Are the 6 realms real locations or psychological states? 01:03:29 - Does Mordy believe in the 6 realms? 01:04:13 - Is belief in the 6 realms necessary? 01:05:21 - Is karma believable? 01:06:26 - Is there a place for chance in the Buddhist view? 01:07:00 - Mordy's hopes for the book 01:07:58 - Does karma give freedom or a burden? 01:08:38 - American karma, “Have it your way”. … Previous episode with Mordy Levine: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=mordy Previous episodes with Lama Lhanang: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=lhanang To find out more about Mordy Levine, visit: - https://www.mordylevine.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Stephen Snyder, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of several books including ‘Buddha's Heart', ‘Trust in Awakening', and his latest release ‘Liberating the Self'. Stephen emphasises the importance of working with personality structures even after Buddhist awakening, and offers methods to resolve trauma and destructive patterns to unlock hidden spiritual strength. Stephen warns about the dangers of achieving enlightenment without dealing with one's personality patterns and trauma, reflects on the inner experience of enlightened Zen masters who behaved badly, and gives his advice for teachers and practitioners who think they no longer need to practice. Stephen also reports a high success rate of awakening and other mystical experiences among his students, shares his approach to retreats and 1-1 teaching, and describes advanced Theravada meditation techniques such as kasina and skeleton meditation. … Video versions: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep298-liberating-the-self-stephen-snyder Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - High rate of awakening at Stephen's retreat 03:05 - What is the secret sauce? 04:40 - Limitations of the Zen retreat style 06:17 - Stephen's experimental approach and heart emphasis 07:14 - Minimum requirement to qualify for Stephen's retreats 08:58 - Why the Theravadans struggle the most 10:00 - Stephen's online trainings 12:09 - The art of 1-1 meditation teaching 13:08 - Seeking confirmation for spiritual experiences 13:53 - Stream of consciousness sharing 14:58 - Stephen's new podcast 16:44 - Liberating the Self and Stephen's writing output 18:20 - Zen ignores personal and psychological work 19:52 - Theravadan shamata and no-self practices 20:42 - Reifying awakening and reassertion of the sense of self 23:22- Bad behaviour by enlightened people 25:35 - Work on your incongruent behaviour before or after awakening? 27:34 - Post-awakening work vs therapy 29:08 - We all have a full range of negative emotions and personality patterns 31:10 - Stephen's childhood hatred 31:46 - Transforming negative emotions 32:07 - Misbehaving Zen masters 33:21 - What is the inner experience of a misbehaving Zen master? 34:5 0 - The benefit of Western depth psychology 36:04 - Is Stephen done? 37:51 - Advice for advanced meditators and teachers who think they're done 41:07 - Stuck in a good place and shifting to concepts 41:08 - Recognising when you have gone off track 42:55 - Contentment vs complacency 43:36 - Challenging emotions and outdated personality patterns 44:12 - Resistance to peace 47:44 - Destabilising effect of spiritual practice 49:41 - Why bother with the deep path? 52:05 - Unlocking profound spiritual qualities 54:34 - Awakening stories 55:04 - The traditional kasina meditation path 58:42 - Skeleton practice and skeleton visions … Previous episode with Stephen Snyder: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=Stephen%20Snyder To find our more about Stephen Snyder, visit: - https://awakeningdharma.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses the age old conundrum of the liberated woman, how to enliven your relationship with new flavors, how to overcome communication challenges, and how to avoid the criticism trap. 00:00 - The age old conundrum of the liberated woman 02:50 - Craving the Viking archetype 08:00 - How to bring new flavors to your relationship and life 10:12 - Overcoming challenges in relationships 10:16 The criticism trap Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am once again joined by Piers Cross, ex-Buddhist monk, coach, and creator of the documentary “Boarding on Insanity”. Piers explains the British boarding school system, examines its history and social context, and reveals how and why boarding school attendance is seen by many as a pathway to power. Piers recalls his own boarding school experience, the trauma and subsequent breakdown it caused, and describes the dynamic of the “privilege double-bind”. Piers recounts his years as a Buddhist monk, how he navigated suicide attempts and self harm with meditation and community support, and the powerful mystical experiences he encountered during his religious practice. Piers lists over two dozen leading figures in the arts, business, and politics who attended boarding school and reflects on the possibility of a leadership class affected by abandonment and dissociation by elite educational institutions. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep297-boarding-on-insanity-piers-cross Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Military family upbringing and alcoholic father 03:42 - Going to boarding school at 11 years old 05:36 - History of British boarding schools 08:23 - Pathway to power 10:19 - Oxbridge emphasis 11:37 - The old boys network and breaking parental attachment 14:42 - Is the education better? 17:48 - IQ vs emotional intelligence 20:31 - A typical day at boarding school 23:30 - Piers' boarding school trauma and learning to dissociate 27:07 - Suicide of Piers' best friend 29:37 - Resilience vs dissociation and avoidant attachment 32:48 - Resurfacing trauma in the 30s and 40s 33:28 - Richard Branson, David Cameron, Bear Grylls, and John Peel 34:36 - Trauma of neglect 36:53 - Idealisation, cover up, and not listening to children 41:45 - The privilege double-bind 47:32 - After boarding school & city career 51:03 - Depression and breakdown 53:07 - Laughed at by the doctor 54:31 - Death of Piers' father and work in Africa 56:41 - 3.5 years in a Buddhist monastery 59:37 - A sense of coming home 01:02:22 - Taking the 8 precepts 01:03:30 - Ordination, self harm, and suicidal ideation 01:06:31 - The support and kindness of the other monks 01:09:26 - Struggles with meditation 01:12:03 - Reading scriptures and other Buddhist books 01:14:00 - Tastes of transcendence 01:14:55 - Profound experience of childlike mind 01:16:35 - Healing avoidant attachment 01:20:10 - Working with dreams 01:21:10 - Tears and connecting to emotion 01:22:41 - Buddhist doctrine about suicide and hell 01:25:14 - The power of initiation 01:27:13 - Leaving the monastery 01:28:08 - Piers shows his journal 01:29:33 - After the monastery and work with board school survivors 01:33:15 - “Boarding on Insanity” documentary 01:33:28 - Tony Blair, Boris Johnson, Justin Welby 01:37:05 - Cover ups and a societal flip 01:39:30 - Prince Charles, Stephen Fry, Ranulph Fiennes, Gabriel Byrne, Roald Dahl, Harry Windsor, 01:41:00 - JFK, Princess Diana, Charles Spencer, Aldous Huxley, Richard Beard, Jeremy Paxman, 01:41:26 - Elon Musk, Mini Driver, Eddie Izzard, Princess Catherine, Rupert Murdoch, 01:44:46 - Piers' 3hr daily practice 01:46:44 - Taoist Tantric Arts 01:47:59 - Piers' advice for taking on new practices 01:49:37 - Piers' meditation practice 01:51:02 - Closing remarks and advice for ex-boarders … To find our more about Piers Cross, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/@pierscross - https://www.piers-cross.com/ - https://www.boardingoninsanity.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Adam Cox is joined by Dr Steve James, a longevity medicine specialist and Cecilie Wang, the co-founder of Scandinavian Saunas. New research has found that many of us feel our health is in decline, with no idea how to stop it. And now experts are suggesting the problem is that we take a reactive approach to health, rather than proactive. https://www.scandinaviansauna.dk/
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses the secrets of energy optimisation, unlocking irresistible flavours of expression, how to choose a man to spend your life with, why men won't compete with their partner, and what to do when you want him to lead more. 00:00 - Secrets of energy optimisation 03:53 - Unlocking irresistible flavors of expression 05:51 - 2 fundamental relationship dynamics 06:39 - How to choose a man to spend your life with 07:31 - Why won't my man compete? 09:55 - I don't want my man to control me 14:52 - Don't become his mother Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode, I am joined by Gerald Ilyas Klawatsch, Sufi musician, music therapist, and founder of the international Ensemble Ak Pirim. Ilyas recalls stories of his Sufi path, his meeting and discipleship under his Sufi sheik, and stories of profound spiritual connection and transcendence through devotional music and religious practice. Ilyas describes Sufism as a love relationship, reveals his own difficult childhood, and explains how to stabilise divine ecstasy in the human body. Ilyas also tells the remarkable life story of his spiritual teacher, emphasises the importance of testing a guru, and reflects on the healing potential of religious practice. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … 00:00 - Intro 00:50 - Names and titles in Sufism 02:46 - The death of Gerald's master, Dr Rahmi Oruc Guvenc 03:51 - - Death of the lineage 05:54 - Why didn't Dr Rahmi Oruc Guvenc pass on his lineage? 07:18 - The intended heir 07:40 - Gerald's guitar studies and finding Sufism 11:40 - Meeting the master 15:00 - Early Sufi training with the master 17:22 - Sufism is a love relationship 21:47 - Dynamics in the early relationship with the master 23:43 - The remarkable life of Dr Rahmi Oruc Guvenc 36:21 - Islamic Sufism vs Universalist Sufism 38:41 - The love relationship and awakening the heart 44:29 - Stabilising the ecstasy 48:03 - Effects of being in relationship with a master 51:25 - How Gerald dealt with the pain of a difficult upbringing 55:15 - Healing the pain 57:49 - Gerald falls to his knees in front of the master 01:07:58 - Testing the teacher 01:10:33 - Sufi music therapy … To find out more about Gerald Ilyas Klawatsch, visit: - https://bengusu.com/g-ilyas-klatsch/ - https://www.youtube.com/@akpirimensemble For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this interview I am once again joined by Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, a tantric priest in a centuries old Newari Buddhist family lineage and master of the religious dance tradition of Charya Nritya. Prajwal Vajracharya reveals the rich world of Newari life rituals, in which major life events such as birth, coming of age, marriage, and death are celebrated by religious and community rites. Prajwal Vajracharya explains the initiation rituals for boys and girls, including a 12-day dark retreat in which girls are taught essential knowledge by community members, and reveals how divination and astrology are used to determine a child's name and life path. Prajwal Vajracharya also discusses the importance of purity and discipline, bespoke rituals to clear obstacles, find a partner, and heal illness, and reflects on the challenges in bringing his ritual tradition to the USA. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep295-life-cycle-rituals-prajwal-ratna-vajracharya-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Life cycle rituals of the Newari tradition 02:17 - Pregnancy and birth rituals 04:40 - Is Western culture traumatising? 05:21 - Creating a happy pregnancy 06:28 - Rituals for infancy 08:28 - The baby knows what it needs 09:31 - Naming and earring rituals 11:39 - Divination and adornment rituals 12:50 - The 1 year ritual 13:41 - Egg, fish, and wine 14:26 - 2nd year ritual 16:!6 - 7th year initiation ritual for boys 17:54 - 12-day dark retreat initiation ritual for girls 20:28 - Variations among castes in Nepal 21:23 - Special, old age ritual for the 77th year 23:02 - 88th year and a rebirth ritual 25:42 - Grieving customs for parent's death 27:36 - Science of rituals and living a happy life 28:29 - In Nepal, everyone takes care of their parents 29:07 - Lack of dementia in Nepal 29:44 - Ritual as a family and community activity 31:20 - Obstacle removal, house blessing, and healing rituals 32:44 - Clay-pot rebirth ritual at 99 years old 35:53 - Respecting the elderly 36:48 - How to choose a child's name 38:25 - Spiritual names 38:58 - Divination to determine the child's career and life path 40:39 - What did Prajwal's son choose? 42:02 - Astrology chart for a new baby 42:53 - The Chudakarma ritual and monastic training 43:49 - Ritual obligations as a Vajrācārya 48:40 - When rituals go wrong! 50:28 - Origin of and textual sources for Newari rituals 52:37 - Purity and preparing for ritual 54:47 - Discipline and respecting others 55:52 - Rituals to get a girlfriend and other life situations 58:08 - The many benefits of rituals 01:01:35 - The complexities of married life 01:03:06 - Bringing Newari ritual traditions to the West 01:05:34 - Innovation and training Westerners in Vajrācārya rituals 01:08:10 - Self-initiation and awakening the channel and nerves 01:09:13 - An American Vajrācārya? 01:10:00 - Challenging reactions in Nepal 01:11:52 - Gurū maṇḍala, the heart of Newari ritual 01:13:40 - Mudrā healing … Previous episodes with Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=prajwal To find out more about Prajwal Ratna Vajracharya, visit: - https://www.dancemandal.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
There are no Ninjas like the AMERICAN NINJA! The Dudikoff abides in this 1985 action movie classic from the iconic Canon Group. Ninja stars! Ninja Lasers! Ninja Tire Irons! From a French crime boss with his very own evil Power Rangers training facility to Steve James grabbing Ninjas by the balls, there's no end to the campy badass action in this blast from the past! Ninja vanish! POOF! Don't just watch Action, B Action!!!
In this episode I am once again joined by Mary Shutan: author, occultist, and spiritual teacher. Mary discusses her new book “Shadow Work for the Soul”, shares her lifelong fascination with the psychological power of dark fairytales, and explains the function of social masks and personae. Mary remarks on a notable increase in spiritual emergencies, a rise in nihilism and the “dark feminine”, and offers advice for those facing spiritual crisis. Mary then takes a deep dive into shadow work, challenges common misconceptions, and offers surprising reflections on both new age masculine-feminine trends and “The Work” of Byron Katie. Mary also reveals how to perceive the shadow in popular culture, warns about the danger of spiritual bypass, and explains how to identify and disarm the ego defences to go beyond one's limitations. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep294-shadow-work-for-the-soul-mary-shutan Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:03 - An notable increase in spiritual emergencies 03:51 - Nihilism and other trends on the increase 05:30 - Collective shadows and the dark feminine 07:25 - How to work with nihilism 08:27 - Mary's advice for those in spiritual crisis 09:39 - The psychological power of myths and fairy tales 11:26 - What can myths and fairy tales teach us? 12:19 - Archetypes and mythic figures 13:18 - Princess and the Pea and Sisyphus 15:21 - Seeing oneself reflected in myths and fairy tales 16:50 - Trauma isolates 18:00 - What is the shadow? 19:43 - What is shadow work? 20:08 - How concepts change when they become mainstream 21:36 - The evolution of acupuncture 23:51 - Limitations of the pop-culture version of shadow work 26:58 - Comments on Byron Katie and “The Work” 31:27 - The healthy ego and ego defences 33:33 - How to identify the ego's defence mechanisms 34:33 - Intellectualisation vs embodiment 35:32 - Superiority/inferiority loop 37:09 - The world as a mirror 40:02 - Pop culture and politics 41:29 - Dangers of spiritual bypass 45:50 - Masks, personae, and perfectionism 47:36 - The importance of mentors 48:47 - Self enquiry traps and the dangers of labels 50:47 - Identifying with spiritual attainments 53:30 - When did Mary call off the search? 55:35 - Letting go of the high-achiever identity 58:03 - Anima, animus, and the masculine-feminine continuum 59:34 - Masculine and feminine dynamics in the occult 01:02:13 - Identifying collective shadows through pop culture figures 01:04:12- Today's cultural focus on narcissism 01:05:41 - Noting your personal reactions to celebrity 01:06:02 - The cultural phenomenon of Taylor Swift 01:08:36 - Shadows of light 01:10:02 - Dark feminine rising 01:10:56 - Why “dark feminine?” 01:12:48 - How do we emerge from times of change? 01:14:48 - Mary's view of the future … Previous episode with Mary Shutan: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shutan To find out more about Mary Shutan, visit: - http://maryshutan.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Want More or Less? Click Here: Simplistic.Reviews/links (This version has audio of the movie. We have another version with no movie audio) Steven Seagal, Cynthia Rothrock, Michael Dudikoff and Steve James...now some Billy Blanks, that's right Mr. Tae Bo himself! Today we start with a team up movie, well straight to video with Roddy Piper and the director of Martial Law (staring Cynthia Rothrock,). Tough and Deadly | 1995 A private investigator is contracted by a CIA agent suffering from amnesia in order to reveal a suspected case of drug smuggling involving influential members of the CIA and government. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114706/ Site: www.Simplistic.Reviews Podcasts: https://simplistic.media/podcasts Spotify: https://goo.gl/pcBg5V Twitter: https://twitter.com/simpletweeters Facebook: http://facebook.com/SimplisticReviews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplygramming iTunes: https://goo.gl/orhsR4 #movie #Commentary #GoodBadMovies #Podcast #governmentjobs #action #government #cia #BillyBlanks #roddypiper #PhilMorris #JackieChiles #Seinfeld #JamesKaren
Want More or Less? Click Here: Simplistic.Reviews/links (This version has no audio of the movie. We have another version with movie audio) Steven Seagal, Cynthia Rothrock, Michael Dudikoff and Steve James...now some Billy Blanks, that's right Mr. Tae Bo himself! Today we start with a team up movie, well straight to video with Roddy Piper and the director of Martial Law (staring Cynthia Rothrock,). Tough and Deadly | 1995 A private investigator is contracted by a CIA agent suffering from amnesia in order to reveal a suspected case of drug smuggling involving influential members of the CIA and government. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114706/ Site: www.Simplistic.Reviews Podcasts: https://simplistic.media/podcasts Spotify: https://goo.gl/pcBg5V Twitter: https://twitter.com/simpletweeters Facebook: http://facebook.com/SimplisticReviews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplygramming iTunes: https://goo.gl/orhsR4 #movie #Commentary #GoodBadMovies #Podcast #governmentjobs #action #government #cia #BillyBlanks #roddypiper #PhilMorris #JackieChiles #Seinfeld #JamesKaren
Jared and Dan deploy a full court press on the world of youth sports in the 90s with Steve James' classic documentary, Hoop DreamsPLEASE RATE/REVIEW/FOLLOWFind us on Threads: @jaredconcessions @danconcesssions
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she reveals men's mating strategies, explains the player vs the high performance man, discusses what it takes to be claimed in relationship, and answers questions about using shame to change a man's behaviour. 00:00 - Understanding men's mating strategies 05:23 - Players and seducers 06:03 - The meek, grateful man 06:26 - The high performance man 08:52 - I want to be claimed by a man 10:34 - He's just not that into you 11:49 - Rebuilding relationship 13:12 - My husband is very unhealthy 14:15 - Should I shame my husband so he changes? 15:08 - I don't like my husband's behaviour 19:24 - A major key to inner awareness: being with discomfort 22:38 - Reestablishing trust with the body Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I once again host a dialogue between Daniel Ingram and Delson Armstrong. Daniel Ingram is an independent Buddhist writer, author of ‘Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha', and co-founder of the Emergent Phenomenology Research Consortium (EPRC). Delson Armstrong is a spiritual teacher, author of 'A Mind Without Craving', and founder of the Freedom of Mind foundation. Daniel offers his response to Delson's recent renunciations, warns about the power of self hypnosis, and explains why it is so common for people to revise their enlightenment claims. Delson considers how it was that he mistook the nature of his spiritual achievements, considers the impact of his renunciation on his practice community and students, and looks ahead to his own future as a teacher and guide. Daniel and Delson address criticisms they have both received for their revisions of important Buddhist doctrines such as the 4 path model of awakening, comment on gatekeeping and fundamentalism in Buddhism, and consider whether advances in contemplative neuroscience may pose a serious threat to traditional religions and their institutions. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify. … 01:51 - The situation 04:36 - Daniel's response to Delson's renunciation 07:14 - Early schism in Buddhism 08:20 - Does Daniel feel vindicated? 09:42 - Delson reflects on what he has learned from Daniel 12:34 - The snake has shed its skin 13:29 - Profound not simple 14:26 - Neurodiversity and the spiritual path 16:54 - Hypnotising yourself into believing you're enlightened 19:17 - How did Delson get his enlightenment wrong? 22:22 - Social factors 24:13 - A gradual process 25:06 - Gatekeepin in Buddhism 27:35 - Jack Kornfield and Christopher Titmuss 30:51 - Social influence on perceptions of spiritual progress 33:35 - Relationships 35:21 - The World Without Sin 38:43 - Can you ever go back? Spoiling the party 40:38 - Delson on negative reactions from his community 43:57 - Attached to models, experiences, and perfection? 46:17 - Stages of development 47:17 - Leading with vulnerability 48:45 - A different type of practitioner 49:55 - The appeal of Vajrayāna 52:21 - Specific criticisms of Daniel and Delson 54:19 - Why do Daniel & Delson revise Buddhism? 56:43 - Delson's critics 59:51 - Transference and counter-transference 01:01:18 - Tantric guru yoga 01:01:47 - When your guru disappoints 01:02:05 - Bhikkhu Anālayo and Daniel's other critics 01:02:27 - Neuroscience and religious orthodoxy 01:06:34 - Will neuroscience destroy Buddhism? 01:10:24 - Praise for the Theravāda 01:11:45 - Theravādan exceptionalism 01:12:37 - Validating or defeating religion? 01:15:43 - Finders' Course and retrenchment to orthodoxy 01:17:57 - Delson on contemplative neuroscience 01:20:39 - What does Daniel think will next happen to Delson? 01:23:23 - Maturing as a spiritual explorer 01:26:33 - Attachment styles & kalyāṇa-mittatā 01:28:40 - Loss of enthusiasm for practice in advanced practitioners 01:31:18 - Micro-renunciations and disgust for the quest 01:33:42 - When spiritual teachers lose their faith 0135:28 - How Delson keeps his interest in teaching 01:38:20 - Why Daniel decided not to become a teacher 01:40:32 - Delson's closing remarks 01:40:45 - Daniel's closing remarks 01:41:04 - Praise for the religious orthodoxy 01:42:21 - Acknowledging critics 01:43:17 - Disagreeing with grace and respect … Previous dialogue between Daniel and Delson: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znX6w6shQ7c Previous episodes with Daniel: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=daniel Previous episodes with Delson: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson To find out more about Daniel, visit: - https://theeprc.org/ - integrateddaniel.info To find out more about Delson, visit: - https://www.delsonarmstrong.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/@delson999 - https://www.freedom-of-mind.org/ www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses how to get over an amazing ex partner, how to make space for your ideal man, why suppressing anger is so toxic and what to do about it, and shares insights from her own career about how to achieve your life goals. 00:00 - How do I get over my amazing ex? 01:28 - How to redirect your desire? 04:33 - Why you must start dating 05:58 - Suppressed anger is exhausting 06:41 - Dealing with anger vs encounter groups 08:35 - Make space for the man of your dreams 09:30 - Advice for achieving your life goals 11:00 - Michaela's career and calling 14:00 - What service really takes 16:51 - Michaela's inspiring friend in India Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this interview I am once again joined by Ron Serrano long time meditation practitioner, contemplative neuroscience subject, and co-founder of the online meditation group Dharmachanics. Ron gives a summary of the major studies in contemplative neuroscience in the last several years, in many of which he was a key subject. Ron explains several historical and ongoing studies including Dr Jud Brewer's landmark Yale University study into the default mode network, hypotheses about the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and the sense of self, and the promise of brain scan technology and real-time neurofeedback devices to fast-track enlightenment. Ron also draws from his experience leading the online meditation group Dharmachanics to offer insight into the typical trajectory towards transformative spiritual experiences, patterns of development in meditators, and how he responds when somebody claims they are enlightened. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep291-neuroscience-of-enlightenment-ron-serrano-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Reflections on life and practice 2020 02:37 - Growth of the Dharmachanics online sangha 03:19 - Dharmachanics discussion group about Guru Viking Podcast 03:50 - Sangha is the toughest of the three jewels 04:51 - Patterns of development for meditators 05:59 - The typical trajectory towards awakening 08:48 - How to relate to special meditation experiences 12:34 - Testing enlightenment 13:37 - Ron's history of participation in contemplative neuroscience 14:09 - Primary subject for Dr Jud Brewer's landmark study at Yale University 16:26 - The PCC and the no-self 18:24 - Developing the brain scan technology and equipment 19:31 - The accelerating power of real-time meditation feedback 22:18 - How 2020 derailed contemplative neuroscience 23:38 - Ron on commercially available brainwave-feedback products 26:59 - How neuroscience studies really work 28:01 - Debate with Daniel Ingram 28:44 - Daniel's contributions to contemplative neuroscience 29:41 - A gold standard phenomenology and technological Harvard study 32:43 - A comprehensive blueprint of the enlightened mind 34:54 - 2 major brain networks 26:56 - Secrecy and hidden players 39:15 - A treasure trove of data 40:32 - The holy grail of contemplative neuroscience 41:38 - Why Ron is pessimistic about finding neuro-correlates of awakening 43:14 - The blessing and curse of the Dalai Lama brand 46:08 - Politics and why neuroscientists need the Dalai Lama's 47:47 - Will neuroscience render religious teachers obsolete? 49:38 - Will AI replace meditation teachers? 50:35 - What will happen to religion if neuroscience cracks the enlightenment code? 52:32 - A history of disruption 54:05 - Does astronomy offer a historical parallel to contemplative neuroscience? 55:46 - The costly problem of data analysis 58:14 - Can this technology be weaponised? 01:00:48 - Technology dependency 01:01:25 - Addictive meditation technology 01:04:39 - Ron reflects on Steve and the podcast … Previous episode with Ron Serrano: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=prajwal To find out more about Ron Serrano, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Dharmachanics/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher, meditation virtuoso, and author of ‘A Mind Without Craving'. In this interview, Delson responds to criticism and answers questions about his recent renunciation of attainments and revision of the Buddhist 4 path enlightenment model. Delson reflects on the pros and cons of questioning established religious doctrines and on the role of direct experience in challenging fixed views. Delson comments on a recently leaked interview, shares his current position on Bhante Vimalaramsi and his TWIM meditation method, and compares Buddhism to traditional yoga. Delson also recalls his own training in Kriya yoga, details the features of the particular lineage which he has begun to teach, and reveals methods of working with karma, chakras, and forgiveness. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep290-answering-critics-kriya-yoga-delson-armstrong Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Responses to Delson renouncing his spiritual attainments 02:56 - Criticism of Delson 04:08 - Has Delson abandoned the 10 fetter model and the 4 attainments? 05:18 - Delson's leaked interview 07:58 - Breach of trust and betrayal of friendship 09:32 - Why redefine the Buddhist doctrines rather than reassess oneself? 12:46 - Delson's experience vs cultural consensus 13:50 - Is Buddhist doctrine beyond cultural? 16:25 - Going beyond maps and Integral Theory 17:35 - Challenging fundamentalism and fixed views 18:43 - The jīvanmukta and other mystical traditions 20:22 - Transcending doctrinal chains of imprisonment 21:37 - Daniel Ingram's revisions 23:07 - Delsonism vs Buddhism 24:44 - Should Delson leave the traditions alone? 26:09 - The role of tradition and Delson's contribution 27:31 - Comments on TWIM 28:32 - Drawing on different traditions 30:03 - Current view 32:05 - Delson's current opinion on TWIM and Bhante Vimalaramsi 36:26 - Delson's training in Kriya yoga 40:16 - Which Kriya yoga lineage does Delson teach? 42:17 - Anyone can do Kriya yoga 44:09 - Short learning curve to samadhi 45:03 - Relaxing into awakening 46:39 - What is the point of the jhanas? 48:13 - Chakras and siddhi powers 51:37 - Deities and chakras 53:26 - The Yoga Sutras on siddhi power 55:07 - Karmic acceleration and misconceptions about chakra work 58:00 - How to release karma 01:00:03 - Kriya yoga approach to work with chakras 01:00:34 - The power of forgiveness 01:01:51 - TWIM vs Kriya, Yoga vs Buddhism 01:07:37 - Delson's recent experience teaching Kriya yoga 01:11:35 - Initiation in Kriya yoga and tantra 01:15:51 - Secrecy as a marketing tool 01:17:17 - Delson reflects on his teaching career 01:19:23 - Scientific tests on Delson, can he still meditate? ` … Watch previous episodes with Delson Armstrong: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson Find out more about Delson Armstrong: - Personal Site: https://www.delsonarmstrong.com/ - YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@delson999 - Delson's Foundation: https://www.freedom-of-mind.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses the pros and cons of starfish intimacy, how to become more adventurous in the bedroom, the relationship challenges of being a freelancer, and how to attract a strong man as a female leader. 00:00 - The starfish 01:29 - Becoming more adventurous in the bedroom 03:06 - How to relax her nervous system 04:00 - Living as a freelancer 06:04 - He's not leading 09:02 - Can I attract a strong man as a female leader? 10:44 - Michaela's leadership style Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am joined by Dr. William Rory Dickson an associate professor of Islamic Religion and Culture at The University of Winnipeg and author of “Dissolving into Being: The Wisdom of Sufi Philosophy”. Professor Dickson takes a deep dive into the life and works of Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī (1207-1273 AD), a 13th century Sufi poet whose works have become famous all around the world. Professor Dickson recounts the fascinating life of Rūmī, including his flight from Mongol invasion, his education in Islamic law, his life-changing encounter with the wild, mystical dervish Shams-i Tabrīzī, and his far-reaching legacy in Asia and beyond. Professor Dickson also explains the anti-Rūmī movements within modern Islam, challenges criticism of Coleman Barks' popular renderings of Rūmī's verse, and explores the controversial Sufi metaphors of intoxication by wine and passionate desire to describe the practitioner's relationship with God. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep289-mystic-poetry-of-rumi-professor-william-rory-dickson-3 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:25 - The life of Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī 03:39 - Neither universalist nor orthodox 05:09 - Rūmī, sharī'ah law, and radical Islam 07:08 - The range of Sufi expression over history 07:56 - The wandering dervishes 08:42 - Rūmī's life-changing encounter with the radical dervish Shams-i Tabrīzī 09:56 - 3 stages of self-annihilation through love 11:14 - Shams-i Tabrīzī's illicit alcohol use 13:36 - Rūmī's spiritual poetry 16:13 - Rūmī's explicit invectives 17:07 - Rūmī's mystic father 19:08 - Mongol domination of Central Asia and Rūmī's flight 21:29 - Rūmī's colourful insults 22:52 - Challenging empty, orthodox religious forms 26:51 - Lack of nuance in the Rūmī wars 29:22 - Rūmī's two major legacies 31:37 - The role of Sufi orders in different cultural contexts 33:48 - The anti-Sufis and a radical forgetting of Rūmī within Islam 35:37 - Coleman Barks and the Rūmī wars 37:23 - Criticism of Coleman Barks 39:06 - Coleman Barks was a Sufi 39:50 - Coleman Barks as an entry point 41:21 - The conundrum of translated literature 43:46 - How to communicate across cultures without losing the essence 45:12 - Rory's enjoyment of Chogyam Trungpa 46:27 - Passionate desire and intoxication on wine 48:30 - Pre-Islamic Arab poetry, “gangster rap” 49:33 - Passionate love poetry 50:55 - Romantic streak in Arab culture 51:53 - Influence of Persian culture on Muslim mystic metaphors 52:46 - Sufism's Neo-Platonism 55:50 - Remembering the One and Tantric practice 56:59 - Integrating the sensual and the spiritual 59:18 - Appreciation of pleasure as a vehicle to God 01:00:07 - Sufi sexuality and the paths of Jesus vs Mohammad 01:05:28 - Scandalous to orthodox Islam 01:07:48 - Knowing God directly 01:09:53 - Categorising God vs Sufi gnosis 01:11:18 - Executed Sufi master 01:11:54 - Is Sufism inappropriate? 01:13:26 - Wine in Sufism and Islam 01:17:39 - Love is brutal … Previous episodes with Professor William Rory Dickson: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=dickson To find our more about Professor William Rory Dickson, visit: - https://www.uwinnipeg.ca/experts-guide/william-rory-dickson.html - https://anqa.co.uk/publications/dissolving-being … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Naomi Levine, author, under her birth name Norma Levine, of several books including ‘The Miraculous 16th Karmapa', ‘A Quest For The Hidden Lands', and ‘Chronicles of Love and Death: My Years With The Last Spiritual King of Bhutan'. In this interview, Naomi discusses her latest writing about the apocalyptic prophecies of the Kālacakra tantra, a Tibetan Buddhist scripture promoted by the Dalai Lama. Naomi discusses the doctrine of the dark age known as the “Kali Yuga” including its origins, its signs and symptoms, and Buddhist ideas about its unfolding. Naomi tells the story of Shambala, a mystical kingdom ruled by enlightened, bodhisattva kings, and reveals the prophesied holy war which the Kālacakra tantra claims will see the Shambala army face off against barbarian hordes. Naomi also discusses the surprising implications of the Dalai Lama's mass Kālacakra initiation rituals, the role of stūpas and other religious monuments in geomantic magick, and how she personally deals with a sense of impending apocalypse. … https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep288-apocalypse-now-naomi-levine Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:18 - What is the Kali Yuga? 06:38 - Moral and environmental degeneration 10:14 - When did the Kali Yuga begin? 12:39 - Signs of the Kali Yuga and climate change 15:55 - Multi-dimensional reality and hidden lands 17:44 - Naomi's pilgrimage to the hidden land of Pemako 20:42 - The Pure Lands in Buddhist cosmology 21:57 - The kingdom of Shambala 26:25 - Seeking Shambala 27:28 - The Kālacakra Tantra 30:28 - Prophecy of the battle of Shambala 33:42 - Good vs evil 35:26 - Does the Kālacakra refer to Islam? 37:42 - Why does the 14th Dalai Lama give Kālacakra initiations? 39:33 - Inner or outer battle? 43:01 - Tai Situ's interest in the timespan between Buddhas 44:55 - Is Shambala just a myth? 46:09 - What is Shambala? 47:35 - Shangri-La and Hilton's “Lost Horizons” 48:28 - Chogyam Trungpa's version of Shambala 51:50 - How geomancy and building stupas affect world events 52:48 - Stupas as geomantic magic 56:56 - Cancelling Jane Austen 57:52 - Dissolution of the elements 59:45 - Tukdam 01:01:47 - How Naomi responds to the end times 01:05:33 - The constantly shifting drama of world events 01:06:43 - Suggestion for non-Buddhists 01:07:48 - Naomi asks Steve's opinion 01:09:14 - Prophecies of lamas and other mystics 01:10:09 - Apocalyptic thinking and displaced death anxiety 01:10:31 - Naomi's attitude towards death … Previous episodes with Naomi Levine: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=naomi To find out more about Naomi Levine, visit: - https://www.facebook.com/naomilevine111 - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Norma-Levine/author/B001K86LZ4?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she gives examples from her own life and discusses how to choose your relationship tone, generosity vs co-dependence, the difference between being self aware and self absorbed, and how to get back into the groove of intimacy. 00:00 - Generosity vs co-dependence 01:57 - Your authentic self 03:06 - What do I bring to a relationship? 04:36 - An example from Michaela's life 07:59 - What kind of relationship tone do you want? 08:37 - Michaela's highest value 10:08 - Self aware vs self absorbed 12:18 - Today's collapse of awareness and attention span 14:08 - How to get back into the groove of intimacy 18:55 - Tips for how to find the time Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am joined by Dr James Cooke, Oxford-trained neuroscientist, spiritual teacher, and author of “Dawn of Mind: How Matter Became Conscious and Alive”. James recounts how, at aged 13, an existential crisis driven by fear of hell saw him emerge into a profound mystical opening. James shares the radical changes he experienced and traces his subsequent years spent exploring and integrating this spiritual breakthrough. James recalls his improbable journey to winning a place at Oxford University, discusses the remarkable overlaps he found there between cutting-edge neuroscience and his own awakening, and reveals the social structures of elite education in the UK. James details the arduous and often overlooked post-awakening work of surrendering egoic structures and releasing attachments, explains why enlightenment is both a gain and a loss, and reflects on the challenges of teaching nonduality as a natural mystic. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. 01:07 - Why did James write Dawn of Mind? 03:43 - Making consciousness science accessible 04:41 - Catholic upbringing, an overly conscientious child 05:49 - Disturbed by hell 06:38 - Existential rumination, a crisis of faith 08:27 - Spiritual awakening at age 13 09:54 - Aftermath of James' awakening 12:59 - Life affirming vs death affirming phases of awakening 15:16 - Letting go of attachments 17:24 - What happened to James' excessive conscientiousness? 20:00 - Two mistakes about the no-self 21:15 - Freedom from extremes, letting go 23:39 - The dissolving self 24:44 - Is therapy necessary? 26:44 - Meditation as a gradual path 27:15 - Meditation vs therapy 28:37 - Practice in life vs joining a monastery 30:11 - Can a natural mystic really teach others? 32:37 - Alienation through spiritual language 33:21 - Enlightenment as loss 34:27 - 3 types of spiritual teacher 36:30 - James' profile as a teacher 37:47 - Self-aggrandising nondual teachers 38:38 - Spiritual influences 40:40 - Adyashanti & the end of suffering 42:08 - Buddhist progress of insight model 43:59 - Volatile teenage years 44:57 - Extreme somatic tension 36:25 - Difficult integration phase 47:39 - Oxford University, dealing with pressure 50:26 - How James got into Oxford against all odds 54:07 - Social context of elite education in the UK 56:52 - The Oxford wound 58:11 - The mystic's mistake, post-awakening 01:00:15 - James' research path at Oxford 01:01:39 - Opening a path for others + psychedelic experimentation 01:04:13 - James' last psychedelic trip 01:05:12 - Working with Beliefs 01:07:29 - Unravelling resistance & faking it 01:10:40 - Is there an end to post-awakening work? 01:13:54 - James' experience of intimate relationships 01:17:25 - Charlatans and why awakening can be off-putting for friends 01:19:30 - Alienating terminology 01:19:48 - Feeling isolated after awakening 01:20:33 - Mimicking awakening, the nondual teaching circuit 01:22:05 - Why did James wait so long to go public 01:25:57 - Reaction of James' family 01:26:51 - Moral perfection 01:30:37 - Why James doesn't like the word “enlightenment” 01:31:10 - The problem with “awakening” 01:32:31 - Language phases, changing the lingo 01:33:20 - The Borg and analogies for awakening 01:34:42 - Siddhi, intuition, supernatural powers 01:36:48 - Insecure rockstars, kundalini 01:38:39 - The language game 01:39:11 - Hearing voices, the dramatising brain 01:40:58 - World as a shared hallucination 01:42:45 - Does James suffer? 01:44:56 - Gross vs subtle suffering 01:45:52 - An experience of physical pain 01:47:08 - Meditative austerities vs life practice 01:50:46 - Trainings in equanimity 01:51:49 - Ideas in Dawn of Mind 01:53:20 - An instinct for empowerment … To find our more about James Cooke PhD, visit: - https://www.drjamescooke.com/ - https://www.innerspaceinstitute.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela in this live workshop recording as she discusses the power of interoceptive awareness, how to lead in the bedroom, how and when to use therapy to strengthen a relationship, and how to avoid common communication mistakes. 00:00 - The power of interoceptive awareness 03:22 - How to bring your partner into their body 03:54 - Relationship vs attraction 05:34 - Fixing relationship problems 06:13 - Reigniting the spark 08:04 - How to play to your strengths 09:38 - Leading in the bedroom and finding a match 10:39 - Dominatrixes and high powered businessmen 12:18 - Learning bedroom skills 13:52 - Decoding communication in relationship 16:43 - Complexities between men and women 17:27 - Bad dynamics of nagging and displeasure Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am once again joined by Gilbert M Gutierrez, Chan Buddhism teacher and dharma heir of Master Sheng Yen. Gilbert recalls his discipleship under renowned Chan Master Sheng Yen, shares stories of gruelling retreat, private 1-1 exchanges, profound spiritual insights, mystical visions, and supernatural powers. Gilbert gives an overview of Chan philosophy, emphasises the importance of both study and practice, and illuminates the Buddhist doctrine of emptiness. Gilbert also details his process of becoming a Dharma Heir, defends telling stories of spiritual experiences, and reflects on his difficulties as an American in being accepted as a genuine teacher of Chan Buddhism. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep284-adventures-of-a-chan-master-gilbertm-gutierrez-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:51 - Becoming a disciple of Master Sheng Yen 04:49 - Eat bitter in your practice 05:54 - Loss of faith 08:21 - Profound encounter with the bodhisattva Quan Yin 12:48 - A contract of the heart 13:39 - A private meetings with Master Sheng Yen 18:30 - Receiving inka transmission from Master Sheng Yen 19:47 - A real master is a chameleon 22:36 - Master Sheng Yen's compassion and mission 25:49 - About Chan Buddhism and emptiness 29:19 - The Heart Sutra 33:07 - We awaken people 35:10 - Master Sheng Yen's emphasis on study 36:42 - Study and practice 38:33 - A reading from Daoxin 39:37 - Meditation experiences and a humbling lesson 45:39 - It's a joke and a sham 47:34 - Becoming a Dharma Heir 49:54 - Everything is mind 51:03 - Special experiences and transcending pain 53:10 - Hearing one's heart beat 53:38 - A state of ultimate bliss 55:08 - A famous master, a loyal attendant, and Gilbert's powerful realisation 01:01:03 - Catching the bug 01:06:26 - The bug whisperer 01:08:44 - Why share stories of spiritual experiences? 01:10:17 - Gilbert's biggest realisation 01:16:22 - Communicating with animals and entities 01:19:58 - Seeing peoples' past and future lives 01:20:36 - Working with ghosts 01:21:39 - How to calm down a ghost 01:22:54 - Dealing with heaven dwellers 01:24:30 - Concerns about being accepted as a dharma heir 01:28:45 - Anti-Western prejudice 01:30:31 - Growing acceptance from the Taiwanese sangha 01:32:55 - The death of Master Sheng Yen 01:37:07 - A final encounter with the master … Previous episode with Gilbert M Gutierrez: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=gilbert To find our more about Gilbert M Gutierrez, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/@chanmindwork/playlists - https://mind-work.mn.co/ - https://riversidechan.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode I am once again joined by Duncan Barford, occult practitioner, counsellor, and author of ‘Occult Experiments in the Home'. Duncan details the different categories of spirits and entities, ranging from ghosts to demons to angels to elementals and land spirits. Duncan reveals his own encounters with these entities, recalls paradigm shifting fire kasina retreats with Daniel Ingram, and shares his own ideas about the importance and inevitability of working with the dead while on the spiritual path. Duncan also explains the Goetia, a controversial system of summoning demons for personal gain; recalls his own and others' experiences of the system; and reflects on what drives practitioners to seek tangible contact with the realms beyond. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep283-seance-summoning-goetic-demons-duncan-barford-2 Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Ontology of spirit entities 04:18 - How to categorise spirits 07:07 - Different spirit relationships 08:18 - Demonic entities and their demands 09:44 - What is the Goetic magickal system? 11:08 - Dangers of working with Goetic entities 13:48 - When Duncan used a Goetic demon for money 15:24 - Addictive quality of working with demons 16:55 - Goetia as magick of last resort 18:33 - Why do people work with Goetic demons? 21:41 - Duncan reflects on his Goetic rituals 24:43 - Barrier to entry for success in magick 29:37 - Duncan comments on the Enochian system 32:16 - Fey and fairies 33:28 - A challenging fire kasina retreat 35:18 - A powerful encounter with elementals and nature spirits 40:47 - Duncan reflects on his fire kasina retreats 43:59 - Encounter with Duncan's guardian angel 45:27 - Why seek supernatural experiences after enlightenment? 47:49 - Shared magickal experiences with Daniel Ingram 49:52 - Duncan's breakthrough and a compelling encounter with Spider Buddha 58:44 - Dreams as a portal 01:00:09 - Contacting the dead 01:01:31 - The hatred of the dead 01:02:27 - Death of Duncan's father and dream visitations 01:08:25 - What the dead leave behind 01:10:18 - Helping the dead to let go vs judging them 01:14:15 - The fear of death 01:14:45 - Denying the dead 01:17:02 - We are accountable to the dead 01:18:53 - Carl Jung on relating to the dead 01:20:15 - Duncan's affinity with the poet John Clare 01:21:18 - Duncan's encounter with Badger 01:22:05 - The perfected dead 01:23:18 - Working with ancestors 01:24:55 - We live in a world of the dead 01:26:00 - Duncan's advice for working with the dead 01:27:29 - Encountering the dead in the Odyssey and Aeneid 01:33:41 - The dead as bundles of karma 01:34:52 - National myths and history as propaganda 01:39:32 - Black Easter and occult means of obtaining power and influence 01:47:15 - Magick and politics 01:49:24 - Glory and honour 01:50:27 - Are magicians political? … Watch previous episode with Duncan Barford: - https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep265-occult-experiments-duncan-barford To find our more about Duncan Barford, visit: - https://www.duncanbarford.uk/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Deremy and Jose talk about one of the greatest documentaries of all time Hoop Dreams! This is Deremy's favorite movie and Jose had never seen it before this episode. The guys talk about the impact this movie has continued to have on sports, race class and culture! How the filmmakers picked the right two people to follow in Arthur Agee and William Gates. What this documentary showed about the business of sports and the pressures high school athletes go through. Why this documentary is considered the best of all time! All this and more on a special episode of Bigger Than The Game with Deremy and Jose.
In this episode I am joined by Shiv Mathur, Youtuber and spiritual explorer. Shiv recounts his life story including his upbringing in India, 16 years of military service, and international career in IT. Shiv describes how a growing spiritual calling saw him retire from the world of work to seek out spiritual masters in the Himalayas. Shiv shares stories from his search, including his encounters with Himalayan yogis such as Tat Wale Baba, and recalls how he began practicing in earnest the teachings he received. Shiv also discusses his current practice, the pros and cons of remote retreat, how to find and relate to a guru, the process of purification, and shares his views on the trajectory of world civilisation today. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep282-spiritual-explorer-shiv-mathur Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:56 - Shiv's Youtube channel 02:06 - Shiv's upbringing in India 03:56 - Education and 16 years of military service 05:25 - Leaving the navy and success in the private sector 06:33 - The spiritual calling and travel to the Himalayas 07:31 - Teaching international workshops 08:54 - Interest in Himalayan yogis 09:48 - Influence of Paul Brunton 10:26 - Travel to find authentic yogis 11:50 - Current life of solitude and self enquiry 12:48 - 3 ways of learning 13:38 - Shiv's current retreat location 15:02 - Pilgrimage and the network of ashrams 16:22 - Shiv's disillusionment with material riches 18:41 - Looking for an escape 19:59 - Meeting Tat Wale Baba and experiencing profound samadhi 21:36 - Traversing dimensions of experience 23:29 - Delusion and luxury beliefs 25:13 - Meeting yogis and purifying your energy 26:15 - Leaving the body and Shiv's meditation goal 27:25 - Challenges of practicing in remote locations 29:52 - Personal prerequisites for practicing sādhanā 31:32 - Shiv's practice method 32:44 - The practice of self enquiry 37:16 - Shiv's interactions with Nasa and other scientists 39:04 - Indian astrology 40:09 - UFOs + did Nasa steal from India texts? 40:36 - The importance of self enquiry 41:55 - Real saints vs commercial yogis 43:55 - Spotting fake gurus 44:42 - How gurus fall into moral degradation 45:13- How to relate to a guru 46:48 - Lifestyle of a real guru 48:17 - How to prepare to work with a guru 51:11 - Shiv discusses siddhi and supernatural powers 53:57 - What is the purpose of siddhis? 55:00 - Purification 57:11 - Bugs in the human operating system 58:24 - Shiv comments on today's social issues 01:00:00 - Feminism, trad wives, and Western capitalists 01:02:23 - The benefits of arranged marriage 01:03:59 - Civilisational collapse and universal correction 01:08:19 - Advice for yogis in times of world turmoil 01:10:06 - Closing remarks … To find our more about Shiv Mathur, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/@ShivMathur … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Join Michaela as she discusses the curse of modern love, challenges masculine-feminine paradigms, and shares insights about the physiological differences in deep communication between men and women. 00:00 - Michaela challenges masculine-feminine paradigms 03:22 - How to manage conversations in long-distance relationships 09:00 - The curse of modern love 10:12 - Making your strength wrong 11:21 - Physiological differences between men and women in deep communication 14:21 - Anger boiling over 15:02 - Releasing my partner's pent up energy Buy Michaela's Flavors of the Feminine Deck: https://www.templeofthebodyintheworld.com/ For workshops, teacher training and courses: https://www.michaelaboehm.com To order Michaela's book "The Wild Woman's Way" : https://amzn.to/2BQ5WpY Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James at https://www.guruviking.com
In this episode I am once again joined by Mattias Daly, Taoist practitioner and translator of ‘Taoist Inner Alchemy', published by Shambala. Mattias reflects on lessons learned from the series of exorcisms her underwent in his 20s, as described in episode 263 of this podcast, “My Demon Exorcism”, including the means by which entities may gain entry, and the surprising motives for their doing so. Mattias explains the vast hierarchy of spirit beings described in Taoism, considers the problems of obtaining special powers through relationships with entities and gods, and contrasts deity worship with voluntary shamanistic possession. Mattias also reflects on different types of Taoist practices, drawing a distinction between cataphatic and kenotic approaches, and recounts a remarkable story of spiritual healing. … Video version: Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Lessons learned after exorcisms 03:34 - Can entities give supernatural powers and siddhis? 06:44 - Entities enter through pride 08:15 - Entities piggyback on humans to accumulate merit 09:43 - The problem with gaining siddhi from entities 10:33 - A renowned Taiwanese siddha 11:59 - Do special powers come with spiritual attainment? 15:27 - Necessity to show off during rituals 17:54 - The vast celestial hierarchy of beings 22:10 - Abbess Liu's spiritual journeys 24:11 - Making contact with higher beings 26:09 - Shamanism and voluntary entity possession 32:34 - Fr Michael Saso on cataphatic Taoist ritual 34:51 - Cataphatic vs kenotic practice 36:34 - Meeting a Taoist practitioner who had three spirit-helpers 43:13 - Requesting information from the spirit realm 49:59 - The cataphatic side of Taoism 52:43 - Learning a powerful somatic release technique and a remarkable healing 01:06:40 - Further healings and the purple cloud 01:17:43 - Mattias' current views on entities and powers … Watch the previous episodes with Mattias Daly: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=daly To find our more about Mattias Daly, visit: - https://www.shambhala.com/authors/a-f/mattias-daly.html … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Delson Armstrong is a spiritual teacher, meditation virtuoso, and author of ‘A Mind Without Craving'. In this interview, Delson renounces all of his previous claims to spiritual attainment. Delson details recent changes in his inner experiences that saw him question the nature of his awakening, including the arising of emotions and desires that he thought had long been expunged. Delson critiques the consequences of the Buddhist doctrine of the 10 fetters, reveals his redefinition of awakening and the stages of the four path model from stream enterer to arhat, and challenges cultural ideals about enlightenment. Delson offers his current thoughts on the role of emotions in awakening, emphasises the importance of facing one's trauma, and discusses his plans to broaden his own teaching to include traditions such as Kriya Yoga. Delson also reveals the pressures put on him by others' agendas, and shares his observations about the danger of student devotion, the hypocrisy of spiritual leaders, and his mixed feelings about the monastic sangha. … https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep280-i-renounce-my-attainments-delson-armstrong Also available on Youtube & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … 01:14 - Delson's declaration 07:56 - Why has Delson changed his view? 10:13 - Pressure on Delson and other peoples' agendas 15:12 - Delson's shocking observations about his 3 year teaching experiment 15:53 - Teaching debut under Bhante Vimalaramsi 17:22 - European teaching tour 17:32 - Tension towards other traditions at Dhammasukha 19:26 - Teacher-student divide at Dhammasukha 20:14 - Tensions with the Indian sangha 21:18 - Discomfort with guru worship in India 22:41 - Mixed feelings about the monastic community 24:30 - Teachers should never stop learning 24:45 - The 10 fetter model and an unhealthy narrative of spiritual success 26:15 - Potential for teacher-student abuse 27:41 - Questioning the 10 fetter model 29:28 - Ideals of awakening and cultural projections 30:48 - Transcending all models and systems 31:39 - Importance of ethics 33:21 - Why is Delson renouncing all spiritual attainments? 36:15 - Being open to your own experience 37:06 - Don't gloss over suffering 39:41 - Changes in Delson's understanding about the Buddha, dharma, and sangha 44:20 - Rethinking negative emotion and the end of craving 47:23 - The Simile of the Saw Sutta, Kakacūpamasutta 48:11 - Recontextualising the higher fetters of restlessness, conceit, and ignorance 49:15 - Is awakening static? 50:06 - Delson's definition of awakening 51:55 - Redefining the 4-path model from stream-enterer to arhat 57:26 - Facing the shadow 59:10 - What was the experience that changed Delson's mind? 01:02:48 - Learning from conflict and shadow 01:04:37 - Maintaining the image of a teacher 01:05:12 - No longer a teacher 01:06:35 - The corrupting pride of being a spiritual teacher 01:07:04 - Hypocrisy of spiritual leaders 01:09:23 - Do not seek perfection in Delson 01:10:14 - K the Buddha 01:11:44 - Against disempowering students 01:14:06 - Does Delson believe awakening even possible? 01:17:12 - What is awakening? 01:18:06 - Levels of awakening 01:18:58 - The true nature of reality 01:20:43 - Siddha tales and Delson's supernatural experiences 01:24:27- Sifting the serious students from the merely curious 01:25:22 - Delson's powerful trip to South India, astrology, and mystical experiences 01:31:07 - Delson's future plans for teaching 01:32:02 - Plans to conduct Kriya Yoga initiations 01:32:41 - Delson as a conduit 01:33:16 - Reactions to Delson's declaration Watch previous episodes with Delson Armstrong: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson Find out more about Delson Armstrong: - Personal Site: https://www.delsonarmstrong.com/ - YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@delson999 - Delson's Foundation: https://www.freedom-of-mind.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
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