Podcasts about zen buddhism

In this episode, we reflect on how small moments of love and care from others and ourselves serve as a form of silent protection throughout our lives.Thank you to everyone who has written in - I truly appreciate it! If you have any episode requests, thoughts or questions you would like to share, please email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you.

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP explore how Steve Jobs' Autistic traits shaped Apple's revolutionary success.

What are the messages behind the new Steven Spielberg's new alien film Disclosure Day? Should we pay attention to them? What should we think about them? What exactly are they? On this episode of the Profile, Watchman Fellowship President James K. Walker sits down with Watchman apologists Brady Blevins and Daniel Ray to analyze and discuss the deeper religious themes in the film and how we might respond to them as believers. Does the film present any new ideas that would be a threat to Christianity? We'll discuss this and several other questions on this episode. Other Watchman Fellowship Resources on the Question of Aliens, UFOs, and UAPs: Free Four-Page Profile ArticlesUFOs and UAPsRaeliansHeaven's GateDisclosure DayThe Urantia BookPodcast Episodes on UFOs, Aliens, and Extraterrestrials UFOS and AliensUfologist Gary Bates Part OneUfologist Gary Bates Part Two Ancient Aliens? No. Daniel's interview with Sasha Sagan, the daughter of the late planetary astronomer Carl SaganAdditional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, we talk about the importance of having moments of lightness and humor, especially when we are struggling. Thank you to everyone who tuned into Wednesday's special episode! If you have any requests, questions or thoughts you would like to share, email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you.

Bedtime Zen Story Sleep Meditation: Point To The MoonWhat if the answers you've been searching for cannot be found in words alone?In this Bedtime Zen Story Sleep Meditation, join Mei and Master Lin as they explore one of the most profound teachings in Zen Buddhism: the difference between the words that point toward truth and the truth itself.As you listen to this relaxing Zen story for sleep, allow the stress, anxiety, and worries of your day to slowly fade away while you prepare your mind and body for deep, restful sleep.Through gentle guidance, mindfulness, breathing exercises, visualization, and timeless Zen wisdom, this guided sleep meditation invites you to let go of the need to understand everything through logic and embrace the peace that comes from simply being present.The famous Zen teaching of the finger pointing to the moon reminds us that words, ideas, and concepts are only guides. Sometimes the deepest truths in life are not explained but experienced directly through silence, awareness, and an open heart.This sleep meditation is perfect if you are looking to:

Bright on Buddhism - Kōan Series Episode 15 - Unmon's KanshiketsuHello and welcome to a new episode of the Kōan Series. In this series, we will read and discuss real Buddhist kōans to try and better understand them. We hope you enjoy.Resources: Episode 10 - https://anchor.fm/brightonbuddhism/episodes/What-is-Zen-Buddhism-e1a2sm2Episode 18 - https://anchor.fm/brightonbuddhism/episodes/What-is-the-Buddhist-philosophy-of-speech--language--and-words-e1dgqu9Episode 32 - https://anchor.fm/brightonbuddhism/episodes/What-are-kans-e1j5sclEpisode 33 - https://anchor.fm/brightonbuddhism/episodes/What-is-emptiness-e1jc31iHori, Victor Sogen (1999). "Translating the Zen Phrase Book" (PDF). Nanzan Bulletin (23).; Hori, Victor Sogen (2000), Koan and Kensho in the Rinzai Zen Curriculum. In: Steven Heine and Dale S. Wright (eds)(2000): "The Koan. Texts and Contexts in Zen Buddhism, Oxford: Oxford University Press; Heine, Steven (2008), Zen Skin, Zen Marrow; Bielefeldt, Carl (2009), "Expedient Devices, the One Vehicle, and the Life Span of the Buddha", in Teiser, Stephen F.; Stone, Jacqueline I. (eds.), Readings of the Lotus Sutra, New York: Columbia University Press, ISBN 9780231142885; Kotatsu, Fujita; Hurvitz, Leon (1975), "One Vehicle or Three", Journal of Indian Philosophy, 3 (1/2): 79–166; Lopez, Donald (2016), The Lotus Sutra: A Biography (Kindle ed.), Princeton University Press, ISBN 978-0691152202; Lopez, Donald S.; Stone, Jacqueline I. (2019), Two Buddhas Seated Side by Side: A Guide to the Lotus Sūtra, Princeton University Press; Pye, Michael (2003), Skilful Means – A concept in Mahayana Buddhism, Routledge, ISBN 0203503791; Watson, Burton (tr.) (1993), The Lotus Sutra, Columbia University Press, ISBN 023108160X; Patrick Olivelle, trans. Life of the Buddha. Clay Sanskrit Library, 2008. 1 vols. (Cantos 1-14 in Sanskrit and English with summary of the Chinese cantos not available in the Sanskrit); Stone, Jacqueline Ilyse (2003), "Original enlightenment and the transformation of medieval Japanese Buddhism" (PDF), Studies in East Asian Buddhism, University of Hawaii Press (12), ISBN 978-0-8248-2771-7, archived from the original (PDF) on November 5, 2013; Hakeda, Yoshito S., trans. (1967), Awakening of Faith—Attributed to Aśvaghoṣa, with commentary by Yoshito S. Hakeda, New York, NY: Columbia University Press, ISBN 0-231-08336-X; Jorgensen, John; Lusthaus, Dan; Makeham, John; Strange, Mark, trans. (2019), Treatise on Awakening Mahāyāna Faith, New York, NY: Oxford University Press, ISBN 9780190297718_________________________________If you like our show and would like to support us, we encourage you to give your money or resources to a worthy cause. We can get through this. Our strongest weapon is solidarity. Stay strong and help where you can. Thank you.Do you have a question about Buddhism that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by emailing us at Bright.On.Buddhism@gmail.com.Credits:Nick Bright: Script, Cover Art, Music, Voice of Hearer, Co-HostProven Paradox: Editing, mixing and mastering, social media, Voice of Hermit, Co-Host

Today's special episode reflects on chronic illness through the lens of an original story about a mighty tree. Thank you to Wendy for requesting this episode. This one is for you, and for everyone who is facing chronic illness, supporting a loved one through chronic illness or contemplating it in their life.We will be back with a new episode this Sunday. Wishing you a beautiful, safe and joyful week ahead.

How does the omnipresence of God in the created world fill our day-to-day lives? How are our everyday lives actually manifestations of God's extraordinary grace? What makes a good story? And what role do pack animals play in some of the greatest moments in the history of Western civilization? We tackle these and other mysteries here on part two of our conversation about the science fiction writing of C.S. Lewis with author, cosmologist, and budding philologist Dr. Luke Barnes. We hope this conversation will stir your wonder and imagination and inspire you to have better conversations with people whom God brings into your life. Luke A. Barnes is a theoretical astrophysicist, cosmologist, and postdoctoral researcher at Western Sydney University. "He received his PhD in Astronomy from the University of Cambridge in 2009.   He is a John Templeton Fellow. He has published papers in the fields of galaxy formation and the fine-tuning of the Universe for life. He is the author, with Geraint Lewis, of A Fortunate Universe: Life in a Finely Tuned Cosmos published by Cambridge University Press. He has also published papers on the philosophy of science, and regularly engages in public outreach through public speaking, articles in the popular press, and social media. He has modeled galaxy formation in a cosmological context with supercomputer simulations, and connected those simulations to observations with modeling of radiative transfer (particularly Lyman alpha emission and absorption) and realistic models of IFU observations.He has investigated the fine-tuning of the universe for intelligent life, modeling the effect of the cosmological constant on galaxy formation and the effect of alternative nuclear physics on stars. He has contributed to the philosophy of science by considering the challenges of testing multiverse theories using probability theory." Daniel and Luke's co-authored profile on Scientism. https://www.watchman.org/scientism/ProfileScientism.pdfAdditional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, we reflect on how we can learn to acknowledge and lift our inner burdens, little by little. This Wednesday, there will also be a special episode reflecting on the topic of chronic illness, dedicated to podcast listener Wendy. Thank you for suggesting this topic for the podcast, Wendy!If you have any episode requests or questions you would like to share, email me any time at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you. Thank you so much to everyone who has written in!

What is the most important thing we can do in life? During my time training in a Zen monastery in Japan, I asked a 107-year-old Zen master one question that completely changed the way I see life.His answer was surprisingly simple: breathe.In this video, I share that unforgettable conversation and the profound lesson hidden within it. You'll discover why conscious breathing is at the heart of Zen meditation, how it helps us return to the present moment, and why every breath reminds us that as long as we are alive, transformation is still possible.If you're interested in Zen Buddhism, meditation, mindfulness, personal growth, spirituality, inner peace, and living with greater awareness, I hope this reflection inspires you.If this message resonates with you, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who may need this reminder today.#Zen #Meditation #Mindfulness #Breathwork #Breathing #ZenBuddhism #PresentMoment #InnerPeace #SpiritualGrowth #PersonalGrowth #Awareness #MindfulnessPractice #RobertAcevesMusic by Epidemicsound.com:Drifting into Tao - Mandala Dreams

Venus is the morning and evening star, often mistaken for a plane or UFO. Named after the Greco-Roman goddess of love, Venus is anything but hospitable to human life. Tornado-like windspeeds in the upper atmosphere, a crushingly suffocating and poisonous atmosphere, a harsh, volcano-covered surface, all make us marvel and wonder. What exactly is Venus? Here on this month's Good Heavens! episode Wayne and Dan ponder aloud the mysteries and wonders of the second planet from the sun and how they think Venus points us to the glory of God in Christ. Thumbnail image from NASA: Radar Observations of Venus "This hemispheric view of Venus was created using radar observations, including images from NASA's Magellan spacecraft. Magellan imaged more than 98% of Venus. Gaps in the Magellan coverage were filled with images from the Earth-based Arecibo radar. The composite image was processed to improve contrast and to emphasize small features, and was color-coded to represent elevation. Magellan launched on May 4, 1989, and was deployed from the cargo bay of Space Shuttle Atlantis on May 5, 1989. The spacecraft orbited Venus from Aug. 10, 1990, until Oct. 13, 1994 when the spacecraft was commanded to plunge into the atmosphere of Venus." Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/USGS Good Heavens! is a production of Watchman Fellowship, Inc., Arlington, Texas. Check us out at Watchman.org FREE: We offer a FREE a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free PROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/Notebook SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/Give Good Heavens! is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc. Podbean enables our podcast to be on Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.  To support Good Heavens! on Podbean as a patron, you can use the Podbean app, or go to https://patron.podbean.com/goodheavens.  This goes to Wayne Spencer. If you would like to give to the ministry of Watchman Fellowship or to Daniel Ray, you can donate at https://www.watchman.org/daniel. Donations to Watchman are tax deductible.

In today's episode, we talk about the importance of taking a different perspective - changing the story - in order to experience growth in how we see others and the world around us.Stories, questions, thoughts or episode suggestions you would like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you.---This episode is a re-upload of last Sunday's episode due to a technical issue! Hoping that this upload will go more smoothly than the last. Thank you everyone.

In the opening chapter of the Book of Isaiah, the LORD calls the heavens and earth to witness a remarkable but tragic thing. Planets and stars and all the heavenly hosts, which do not have ears, will listen and obey their Creator, but we who do have hears fail to hear or understand. Even oxen and pack animals have more sense than we do, according to what God says through the prophet. In order to circumvent our sinfulness, Jesus often used parables stories to get His audience's attention.  And to this day, Jesus's parallels are the most well-known stories in the world. From the Prodigal Son, to the Good Samaritan, Jesus tells us of the kingdom of God and of His mercy and grace toward sinners. C.S. Lewis likewise believed stories were perfectly suited to convey spiritual and theological truths. Lewis used stories to get past our analytical "watchful dragons" of bias, skepticism, and false beliefs we might harbor about God, lessons and truths we might miss if spoken directly to us as an object moral lesson. This week and next on the Profile, we have a delightful rambling chat about Lewis's science fiction with author, budding philologist, cosmologist and C.S. Lewis enthusiast, Dr. Luke Barnes. We hope the conversation will inspire you to have likewise enjoyable and meaningful conversations, too, as well as inspire you to use words wisely! Luke A. Barnes is a theoretical astrophysicist, cosmologist, and postdoctoral researcher at Western Sydney University. "He received his PhD in Astronomy from the University of Cambridge in 2009.   He is a John Templeton Fellow. He has published papers in the fields of galaxy formation and the fine-tuning of the Universe for life. He is the author, with Geraint Lewis, of A Fortunate Universe: Life in a Finely Tuned Cosmos published by Cambridge University Press. He has also published papers on the philosophy of science, and regularly engages in public outreach through public speaking, articles in the popular press, and social media. He has modeled galaxy formation in a cosmological context with supercomputer simulations, and connected those simulations to observations with modeling of radiative transfer (particularly Lyman alpha emission and absorption) and realistic models of IFU observations.He has investigated the fine-tuning of the universe for intelligent life, modeling the effect of the cosmological constant on galaxy formation and the effect of alternative nuclear physics on stars. He has contributed to the philosophy of science by considering the challenges of testing multiverse theories using probability theory." Daniel and Luke's co-authored profile on Scientism. https://www.watchman.org/scientism/ProfileScientism.pdfAdditional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Bedtime Story Sleep Meditation:  The Awakening Of TesshoHave you ever wondered what enlightenment really means in Zen Buddhism?In this relaxing Bedtime Story Sleep Meditation, Robert Aceves shares the powerful Zen story of Tessho and his encounter with the Zen master Dokuon. Through this ancient Zen teaching, you'll experience a calming journey into mindfulness, self-discovery, inner peace, and the true meaning of emptiness.As you relax into deep sleep, you'll be guided through a peaceful meditation that helps release stress, quiet the mind, and cultivate present-moment awareness. This soothing sleep meditation combines a traditional Zen story with gentle relaxation techniques, making it perfect for reducing anxiety, calming racing thoughts, and preparing for a restful night's sleep.Whether you're interested in Zen Buddhism, meditation, mindfulness, spiritual growth, or simply looking for a bedtime story to help you sleep, this guided meditation offers wisdom and tranquility for both beginners and experienced practitioners.Allow yourself to unwind, let go of the day, and discover the peace that exists beyond thought.

>>Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: Proven paths to break 90, break 80, and crush competitive golf (no swing changes required) Jim Waldron is a mental performance coach and golf professional with one of the most diverse backgrounds in the sport, incorporating lessons from Buddhist mindfulness, modern neuroscience, NLP, and shamanism into his "mind-body connection" holistic approach. After a tough showing in a junior tournament led to an 11-year hiatus from the game following an anger-filled outburst at age 15, Jim spent his time in California studying human potential and Zen Buddhism before returning to the game to help thousands of golfers overcome mental blocks like the yips. In this episode, you will learn: The "Two Minds" Theory and the Watchdog: How the unconscious mind acts as a computer that can be programmed for new skills, and why a skeptical "watchdog" often prevents golfers from successfully implementing swing changes. A Radical Approach to Curing the Yips: Why the "principle of paradoxical intention"—giving yourself permission to yip—actually decreases the frequency of the disorder. External vs. Internal Meditation: Why traditional "internal" meditation can be dysfunctional for beginners and how to practice "external" meditation, such as focusing on a candle flame or practicing walking meditation to stay present between shots. The Power of the Carefree Mindset: Lessons from Jack Nicklaus and Scotty Scheffler on maintaining emotional detachment from outcomes and using a singular focal point to strengthen the mind-body connection. Tactical On-Course Reset Strategies: Specific techniques to handle fear and pressure, including the 336 breathing method (3-second inhale, 3-second hold, 6-second exhale) and the "I'm safe" amygdala-calming affirmation. And more! WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Master Mobility & Flexibility with Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Practice Like a Pro With Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 100 Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro.   Wicked Smart Golf Books Play better FAST with the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon or Audible.  Simplify "golf fitness" with my book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula on Amazon. Or, listen to it on Audible.  Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

If intelligent design is so apparent in living organisms and in the cosmos, why don't more people accept it? Here on part two of our conversation with President of Reasons to Believe, biochemist, author, and apologist, Dr. Fuz Rana, we explore this question and reveal how people do in fact recognize design, but yet suppress that truth. Fuz will give us some winsome wisdom about how we as Christians can intelligently engage in the theology-science dialogue and help unbelievers see Christ more clearly. Fuz's Testimony and Background: "As a graduate student studying biochemistry, I was captivated by the cell's complexity, elegance, and sophistication. The inadequacy of evolutionary scenarios to account for life's origin compelled me to conclude that life must come from a Creator. Reading through the Sermon on the Mount convinced me that Jesus really was who Christians claimed him to be: Lord and Savior. Still, encouraging others to join me in following Christ wasn't important to me—until my father died. His death changed that. In 1999, I left my position in research and development at a Fortune 500 company to join Reasons to Believe. I felt the most important thing I could do as a scientist was to show Christians and non-Christians alike the powerful scientific evidence for God's existence and for the reliability of the Bible."Free Resources from Watchman Fellowship Naturalism: https://www.watchman.org/Naturalism/ProfileNaturalism.pdfScientism: https://www.watchman.org/scientism/ProfileScientism.pdfPanpsychism: https://www.watchman.org/files/ProfilePanpsychism.pdfAtheism: https://www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/atheismprofile.pdfAdditional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, we talk about why our needs are always shifting and why it's important to stay open to the process of change. Stories, thoughts or questions you would like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you!

“I considered it elder abuse. She put him through the paces, not only before the debate, but after. She should have gotten him out of there immediately.” — Sally Quinn on Jill Biden and the debate Today's guest is amongst America's most verbal octogenarians. No, not you-know-who. Sally Quinn is the illustrious Washington DC hostess, writer and commentator. The almost 85-year-old does improv comedy every Sunday, ballroom dancing every week and Zen Buddhist meditation every Monday night. Her novel, Silent Retreat, is now out in paperback. And she's working on her memoir, tentatively entitled Never Invite Sally Quinn. Certainly Jill Biden won't be inviting Sally Quinn any time soon to one of her tête-à-têtes. Quinn's account of what went wrong with the Biden presidency is sharply personal. Her late husband, legendary Washington Post editor Ben Bradlee, had dementia. She watched his cognitive decline from inside, and the parallels with what she observed in Biden were, she tells me, too close for comfort. Jill Biden's decision to keep Joe running after the debate, when she privately suspected he'd suffered a stroke, was, in Quinn's word, “elder abuse.” Silent Retreat, set at a monastery in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, is about the sexiness of silence. A prize-winning reporter and the venerable Archbishop of Dublin fall in love in enforced silence. Anything but elder abuse. But autobiographical? Probably not. As Ben Bradlee used to tease her over breakfast, it's always been hard for not-silent-Sally to keep her mouth shut. Five Takeaways •       The Army Brat Who Became Washington's Most Powerful Hostess: Quinn grew up as an army brat, moving from posting to posting with her military father. She arrived in Washington after college, did a stint as social secretary to the Algerian ambassador, and was then hired by Ben Bradlee to write for the Washington Post's new Style section — the first style section in the history of American journalism. She and Bradlee eventually married. Their home in Georgetown became the hub of Washington's social and political life for decades. She describes herself not as a powerhouse but as someone who “really lucked out.” An army brat who knew how to work a room. •       Gerontocracy Is Real — But People Who Keep Going Are Different: Quinn agrees with Samuel Moyn that American gerontocracy is a genuine problem: people who lose their cognitive sharpness should not be running organizations or countries, and the tragedy is that no one can know in advance who will lose it and who won't. But she draws a distinction: the problem is not old people, it's old people who have stopped growing. She surrounds herself with younger people, particularly younger journalists, because of their energy, idealism, and optimism. She is still working full time. The issue is not age. It's vitality. •       Biden and Jill: Elder Abuse: Quinn's account of the Biden presidency is the most personal Andrew has heard. Her husband Ben Bradlee had dementia. She knows the signs. She watched Biden lose it, got a knot in her stomach every time he spoke publicly. The debate was her worst nightmare. Everyone in the White House knew what was happening and wasn't telling the truth. And Jill Biden — who now admits she thought he had had a stroke after the debate — raised his arm in a victory salute the next day and took him off to campaign in North Carolina. Quinn's verdict: “I considered it elder abuse.” •       Silent Retreat: A New Yorker Writer and an Archbishop Fall in Love in Enforced Silence: The novel grew from Quinn's own annual visits to a Trappist monastery in Virginia's Berryville. She is a woman who once failed to stay quiet for three days — or so her husband thought — and who found to her surprise that she loved it. The novel: a prize-winning reporter whose marriage is falling apart, and an Archbishop of Dublin whose faith is in crisis, check into the same monastery for a silent retreat. They can't speak to each other. They speak to the monk instead. The novel is told through those confessions. Kirkus: “an unholy brew of lust and faith.” Airmail: “a bodice ripper with a fillip of Roman Catholic ritual.” •       Improv, Ballroom Dancing, Zen Buddhism, and Dinner by Candlelight: Quinn's account of how she stays alive at 84 is the most energetic thing in this conversation. Improv comedy every Sunday for two and a half hours — performances after the class, with people half her age. Ballroom dancing every week. Zen Buddhist meditation every Monday night for two hours. Working out every day. Writing her Washington memoir. And hosting small dinner parties — six or eight people, candlelight, good food, a lot of wine — as a form of community-building in what she calls the toxic environment of today's Washington. The memoir's title: Never Invite Sally Quinn. Andrew has already secured an invitation to the next dinner party. About the Guest Sally Quinn is a longtime Washington Post journalist, columnist, television commentator, Washington insider, and one of Washington's legendary social hostesses. She is the author of Silent Retreat (Simon & Schuster), Finding Magic, The Party, Happy Endings, Regrets Only, and We're Going to Make You a Star. She was the founder and moderator of On Faith, the Washington Post's religion website. She lives in Georgetown, Washington DC. References: •       Silent Retreat by Sally Quinn (Simon & Schuster). In paperback. •       Episode 2945: Samuel Moyn on Gerontocracy in America — referenced at the opening. •       Ben Bradlee — Quinn's late husband, executive editor of the Washington Post during Watergate, referenced throughout. About Keen On America Nobody asks more awkward questions than the Anglo-American writer and filmmaker Andrew Keen. In Keen On America, Andrew brings his pointed Transatlantic wit to making sense of the United States — hosting daily interviews about the history and future of this now venerable Republic. With nearly 3,000 episodes since the show launched on TechCrunch in 2010, Keen On America is the most prolific intellectual interview show in the history of podcasting. WebsiteSubstackYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify Chapters:...

What Is Truly Important In Life? | Meditate With Robert AcevesWhat happens when you finally achieve the dream you've spent years pursuing?In this video, I share one of the most profound and life-changing experiences of my journey. For years, my greatest goal was to become a Buddhist monk and study Zen Buddhism in Japan under one of the most respected Zen masters in the world.After years of dedication, sacrifice, and preparation, I finally arrived at a Zen monastery in Japan. I believed I was about to discover the meaning of enlightenment and fulfill my life's purpose.But just a few days into my training, something unexpected happened.During a deep Zen meditation session, I was confronted by a question that shook me to my core: “You've achieved your goal… now what?”What followed was a powerful realization about purpose, happiness, personal growth, spirituality, and the true value of knowledge. I discovered that success is not about collecting titles, degrees, or spiritual achievements. What matters most is how we use what we've learned to serve others and make a difference in the world.This story is for anyone searching for their purpose, questioning their next step in life, or wondering whether achieving their dreams will bring lasting fulfillment.If you're interested in Zen Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation, personal development, spiritual growth, life purpose, or finding deeper meaning in life, I hope this story inspires you.Thank you for being part of this journey.#Zen #ZenBuddhism #Meditation #Mindfulness #LifePurpose #PersonalGrowth #SpiritualGrowth #Enlightenment #SelfDiscovery #BuddhistWisdom #Japan #ZenMaster #PurposeDrivenLife #LifeLessons #SpiritualJourney #RobertAceves

Hello everyone! For this week, we have a special treat - a listener story, submitted by Sarah. Thank you Sarah for sharing this beautiful, real-life story with me and our podcast community! I truly enjoyed reading this story and feel grateful to share it with everyone.

"Evolution is a settled fact!" we're often told by scientists, science popularizers, and probably have seen this statement not a few times on social media. But there has been another, perhaps less-noticed trend in the evolutionary sciences today. There is an ever-increasing academic dissent against evolution by means of natural selection as the best explanation for the variety of life we see on Earth today. The more scientists probe the wonders of living organisms, and the stunningly overwhelming variety of species that exist today, the more improbable the Neo-Darwinian account of the diversification of species seems to many. This week on the Profile we feature a conversation with the President of Reasons to Believe, biochemist, author, and Christian apologist Dr. Fuz Rana. We'll discuss some of the key reasons why intelligent design in biology is seemingly making a comeback. We go beyond mere intelligent design though, and discuss the specifics of how design in biology and in the universe points us back to Scripture and ultimately to Christ. Fuz's Testimony and Background: "As a graduate student studying biochemistry, I was captivated by the cell's complexity, elegance, and sophistication. The inadequacy of evolutionary scenarios to account for life's origin compelled me to conclude that life must come from a Creator. Reading through the Sermon on the Mount convinced me that Jesus really was who Christians claimed him to be: Lord and Savior. Still, encouraging others to join me in following Christ wasn't important to me—until my father died. His death changed that. In 1999, I left my position in research and development at a Fortune 500 company to join Reasons to Believe. I felt the most important thing I could do as a scientist was to show Christians and non-Christians alike the powerful scientific evidence for God's existence and for the reliability of the Bible."Free Resources from Watchman Fellowship Naturalism: https://www.watchman.org/Naturalism/ProfileNaturalism.pdfScientism: https://www.watchman.org/scientism/ProfileScientism.pdfPanpsychism: https://www.watchman.org/files/ProfilePanpsychism.pdfAtheism: https://www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/atheismprofile.pdfAdditional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, we will be reflecting on what we're carrying with us, whether it's the past, present or future, and how we can decide what to do with these elements every day.Questions, stories or thoughts you would like to share? Email me any time at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you.

Sleep Guided Meditation Zen Story - Emptying Your CupDrift into deep sleep with this transformative guided sleep meditation inspired by one of the most famous Zen stories: “Emptying the Cup.”

Hey friends, Chase here Eric Zimmer is on the show today, and this conversation is exactly the kind of reminder we all need when we are trying to change something real. You probably know Eric from The One You Feed, his award-winning podcast about wisdom, behavior change, mental health, spirituality, and what it means to live well. But Eric's new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life, goes somewhere even more fundamental. It asks a question that feels especially urgent for creators, entrepreneurs, leaders, parents, and anyone trying to build a meaningful life in a world that constantly tells us to optimize everything: What if lasting change is not about becoming more disciplined, but about learning how to stop fighting yourself? That question matters because most of us have made change too heavy. We wrap it in shame, pressure, perfectionism, identity, ambition, self-criticism, and the fantasy of the big breakthrough. We get stuck waiting for the epiphany, the watershed moment, the dramatic turn where everything finally becomes clear. Eric's message is simpler, deeper, and more freeing: "There are moments that stand out because we pull them out and we pluck them out and we make them important, but they don't make sense without the moments before and after. There's all these little, deeply uninteresting moments where I made a small choice to move towards my recovery and away from my addiction again and again. And that's the way change really works." That idea is the center of this episode. We talk about Eric's journey from homelessness and heroin addiction to recovery, coaching, teaching, and writing; why your mind has a mind of its own; how to work with competing desires instead of pretending they are not there; and why small choices compound into a completely different life. This conversation is about loosening the grip. It is about getting back to the part of you that knows what matters, even when another part of you wants comfort, distraction, escape, or relief right now. Why This Conversation Matters Right Now We are living in a strange moment for anyone who wants to grow. On one hand, there has never been more access to tools, ideas, books, podcasts, teachers, frameworks, research, and practices that can help us change. That is extraordinary. But it also comes with a cost. The pressure to optimize every corner of our lives has never been stronger. Every scroll seems to bring another routine, another system, another habit, another rule, another version of the person we are supposed to become. We are constantly being asked to improve ourselves: What is your morning routine? What habit are you tracking? What are you optimizing? What are you building? What are you eliminating? What is the plan? Those questions can be useful at the right time. But when they show up too early, or too often, they can turn growth into another way of beating ourselves up. Eric's work reminds us that change begins with honesty. Before the perfect habit. Before the flawless system. Before the heroic reinvention. Before the new identity. Before the transformation story, there is a person being pulled in different directions. Wanting to change. Wanting to stay comfortable. Wanting what matters most. Wanting what feels good right now. Wanting freedom. Wanting safety. Wanting growth. Wanting acceptance. That does not mean something is wrong with you. It means you are human. And in that understanding, there is a kind of wisdom most self-improvement advice forgets. What We Explore in This Episode Eric's low point at 24 and how homelessness, heroin addiction, illness, and the threat of prison became the beginning of his recovery journey. Why the big turning point is not the whole story and why change actually happens in the small choices that come after. How to understand the "off-camera moments" of transformation that never make the montage but make all the difference. Why your mind has a mind of its own and what it means to be a motivationally complex person. How to work with what you want now and what you want most without shaming yourself for having competing desires. Why "playing the tape all the way through" can help you see past the first scene your mind wants to show you. How structure and story both shape change, and why systems alone are not always enough. How to hold change and acceptance at the same time when life refuses to fit into simple categories. Why trying smaller can create momentum when trying harder is not working. The Core Idea: Little by Little, a Little Becomes a Lot The fastest way to get unstuck is often to stop waiting for the big transformation and start paying attention to the next small choice. We get obsessed with the dramatic moment. The rock bottom. The epiphany. The vow. The clean break. The day everything changed. We want the music to swell. We want the story to make sense. Eric's story has one of those moments. At 24, he was homeless, addicted to heroin, physically depleted, and facing the possibility of decades in prison. Going into long-term treatment mattered. But Eric is careful not to confuse the turning point with the transformation. The transformation was not one decision. It was thousands. The decision to move toward recovery again. The decision to not use again. The decision to show up again. The decision to do the next small thing again. The decision to choose what mattered most over what felt urgent right now. The on-camera moment gets the attention. The off-camera moments create the life. Eric's point is not that ambition does not matter. It is not that insight does not matter. It is not that we should abandon goals, systems, or discipline. It is that the living center of change is choice. The small one comes first. Your Mind Has a Mind of Its Own One of the big tensions in this conversation is the voice many of us carry around that says, "If I really wanted to change, this would be easier." That voice says: You should have more discipline. You should be more consistent. You should know better by now. You should not still struggle with this. You should be able to just decide. Eric's response is that we are not simple creatures. We are motivationally complex. We do not want one thing. We want lots of things. We want what we value most, and we want what feels good right now. We want to grow, and we want to be comfortable. We want to change, and we want to be accepted exactly as we are. That is why the phrase "your mind has a mind of its own" is so useful. It gives language to something we all experience. You decide you are going to do one thing, and then you watch yourself do another. You know what would help, and still you avoid it. You care deeply about the future, and still the present moment feels more real. The work is not to shame that complexity out of yourself. The work is to understand it. Play the Tape All the Way Through One of my favorite parts of this conversation is Eric's explanation of a recovery practice called "playing the tape all the way through." When we want something in the moment, our mind often shows us only the first scene. The first scene is relief. The first scene is escape. The first scene is pleasure, comfort, avoidance, or release. In Eric's addiction, that first scene was all the reasons getting high would feel amazing. But recovery taught him not to stop there. He had to keep the tape running. Then what? The shame comes back. The fear comes back. The despair comes back. The consequences come back. The craving comes back, often stronger than before. This is such a powerful tool because it makes the future less abstract. Before you avoid the work, play the tape through. Before you send the angry email, play the tape through. Before you break the promise to yourself, play the tape through. Not to punish yourself. To see clearly. Structure Matters, But It Is Not the Whole Story Eric makes an important distinction in this episode between the external architecture of change and the internal moments of choice. A lot of personal growth advice focuses on structure. Set the goal. Build the system. Make the habit obvious. Make the habit easy. Design the environment. Remove friction. Put the right reminders in place. That matters. But structure is not the whole story. Because even when you know exactly what to do, and even when you have made it as easy as possible, the moment still comes. You and the choice. Do you write? Do you walk? Do you call? Do you tell the truth? Do you choose what you want most over what you want now? When we do not make the choice we wanted to make, Eric says there is usually something happening inside us. A feeling. A thought pattern. A story. A fear. A form of self-doubt we have not learned how to work with yet. That is why real change needs both. The structure and the story. Try It Smaller Eric says something in this episode that every ambitious person should sit with: Try it smaller. That does not mean the goal does not matter. It means the path has to be walkable. When a change plan is not working, many of us assume we need more discipline. More pressure. More intensity. More accountability. But often, the better move is to make the action smaller. If you cannot write for two hours, write for ten minutes. If you cannot meditate for 30 minutes, sit for three breaths. If you cannot change your whole health routine, put on your shoes and walk around the block. If you cannot face the entire project, open the document. Small does not mean meaningless. Small means repeatable. And repeatable is where momentum comes from. Change and Acceptance Are Not Opposites Another major theme in this episode is the tension between growth and acceptance. One of the best parts of us wants to change. We want to grow, improve, heal, create, recover, repair, and build better lives. And yet, so many wisdom traditions point us toward acceptance. Presence. Contentment. Allowing things to be as they are. So which is it? Do we change, or do we accept? Eric's answer is that very often we have to do both about the exact same thing. He talks about depression in his own life. Is that something he has changed, or something he has accepted? Both. There are things he does that make depression less likely. There are practices, supports, behaviors, and choices that help. And sometimes the cycle comes around anyway, and the most skillful thing he can do is say, "Oh, this is what's here." That is not resignation. That is honesty. Wise Habits Create Momentum With Compassion The title of Eric's book is not just a catchy phrase. It is a worldview. A little becomes a lot. Not because one tiny action changes everything overnight, but because small choices compound. They build identity. They build trust. They build momentum. They begin to align our daily actions with our deeper values. Eric calls these Wise Habits. They are not just outer behaviors designed to make us more efficient. They also include inner attitudes that bring more peace, clarity, and self-compassion to everyday life. That matters because self-criticism is often mistaken for seriousness. We think if we are hard enough on ourselves, we will finally change. But harshness usually creates more resistance. More shame. More hiding. More all-or-nothing thinking. A Wise Habit does something different. It helps us move forward without declaring war on ourselves. Ask What Problem You Are Solving Near the end of the conversation, Eric offers a simple question that I love: What problem are you solving? That question is a filter. Because we are surrounded by advice. Every day, someone is telling us to start a new routine, stop eating at a certain time, wake up earlier, track something, optimize something, remove something, add something, become something. Some of those ideas might be useful. But not every good idea is your idea. Not every habit belongs in your life. Before you collect another self-improvement assignment, ask what problem you are actually trying to solve. That question brings you back to values. It brings you back to clarity. It brings you back to the life you are actually living. About Eric Zimmer Eric Zimmer is an author, teacher, speaker, behavior coach, and the creator of The One You Feed, an award-winning podcast about wisdom, behavior change, mental health, spirituality, and what it means to live well. At 24, Eric was homeless, addicted to heroin, and facing the possibility of decades in prison. His recovery sparked a lifelong exploration of human transformation, resilience, meaning, and the small daily choices that shape a life. His new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life, brings together behavioral science, Zen Buddhism, modern psychology, and timeless wisdom to show how lasting transformation happens through small, repeatable choices. Timecodes 00:00 – Eric on why change happens in the small off-camera moments 02:11 – Chase introduces Eric Zimmer and How a Little Becomes a Lot 05:25 – Eric shares the low point that became the beginning of his recovery journey 06:17 – Why Eric's extreme story contains something universal 09:34 – How treatment, recovery, and the question "why do we change?" shaped Eric's work 11:19 – The tension between wanting to grow and learning to accept where we are 13:48 – Why the big turning point only matters because of the choices that follow 15:12 – The difference between external architecture and internal moments of choice 18:29 – What it means that your mind has a mind of its own 19:07 – Why we are motivationally complex creatures 20:20 – The dilemma between what we want now and what we want most 22:00 – Why small changes require trust in the process 23:19 – Playing the tape all the way through 24:52 – The rider and the elephant as a model for change 26:30 – Why "you are the average of the five people around you" is incomplete 28:29 – Emergence, friendship, and why relationships are more than instruments for success 30:44 – How to seek growth while allowing life to be as it is 33:04 – Eric reflects on grief, Alzheimer's, and the practice of allowing 35:08 – Why some things must be both changed and accepted 38:31 – Two types of change: change that happens to us and change we cause to happen 39:01 – Getting clear on why you want to change 39:25 – Asking "what problem are you solving?" before chasing another tactic 40:42 – The SPA method and why specificity matters 41:53 – Planning for what will go wrong 42:14 – Deconstructing the choice point when you do not follow through 43:01 – Working with self-doubt skillfully enough to begin 43:50 – Why trying smaller can help you build consistency 44:21 – Chase reflects on the hope, kindness, and practicality of Eric's work 45:37 – Where to find Eric's book, podcast, and work Questions to Ask Yourself If you want to turn this episode into action, take a few minutes with these questions: What change am I trying to make right now, and why does it actually matter to me? Where am I waiting for a dramatic breakthrough instead of making the next small choice? What am I trying to force that I might need to understand first? What do I want now, and what do I want most? What first scene is my mind showing me, and what happens if I play the tape all the way through? What would it look like to try smaller instead of trying harder? Where is self-criticism pretending to be discipline? What part of my life needs more structure? What part of my life needs more compassion? What am I trying to change that I may also need to accept? A Simple Practice for Making Real Change Here's something practical you can do this week. Choose one change you care about. Not ten. Not your whole life. One. Ask yourself: What problem am I solving? Then make the next action smaller than your ambition wants it to be. Open the document. Walk for five minutes. Sit for three breaths. Send the text. Put the shoes by the door. Write one paragraph. Make the call. Tell the truth in one sentence. Do not evaluate it too early. Do not turn it into a full identity. Do not decide that it only counts if it is dramatic. Do not use one missed day as proof that you cannot change. Just make the next small choice. Then notice what happens. Notice what gets in the way. Notice what story shows up. Notice whether something in you begins to trust that change does not have to arrive all at once. That is enough. Final Thought The longer I do this work, the more I believe that transformation is not something we can force. It is something we practice. It happens after the decision. After the insight. After the moment we wish would change everything. It happens in the quiet, ordinary, off-camera choices that do not look like much at first. Eric's invitation in this conversation is simple, generous, and quietly radical: Stop making change so dramatic that you cannot touch it. Get clear on what matters. Understand the parts of you that are pulling in different directions. Build the structure. Work with the story. Play the tape all the way through. Try it smaller. Return when you stumble. Little by little, a little becomes a lot. Until next time: make the next small choice, and keep feeding what matters most.

Doctrine and Covenants section 9, verse 8 are supposedly the words of the Lord, given through Joseph Smith to Oliver Cowdery in 1829. "But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right." This week we continue taking a biblical look the burning in the bosom and how Latter-day Saints testify that they believe the Book of Mormon is true with president of the Institute for Religious Research Dr. Robert M. Bowman, Jr.Dr. Bowman is an evangelical Christian apologist, biblical scholar, author, editor, and lecturer. Rob is the author of over sixty articles and the author or co-author of fifteen books including Jesus' Resurrection and Joseph's Visions: Examining the Foundations of Christianity and Mormonism, Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ, co-authored with J. Ed Komoszewski, and Faith Has Its Reasons: Integrative Approaches to Defending the Christian Faith, co-authored with Kenneth D. Boa. Dr. Bowman holds the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in biblical studies from Fuller Theological Seminary and South African Theological Seminary. He is widely regarded as the leading evangelical scholar addressing the uses and interpretations of the Bible by such religious groups as Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons. LDS LinksPreach My Gospel Journal of DiscoursesResources from Watchman FellowshipPrevious podcasts on Latter-day Saint beliefs, practices, history, and doctrines. Recent podcasts on Mormonism Sandra Tanner Part OneSandra Tanner Part TwoAaron Shafowalof Part OneAaron Shafowalof Part TwoEric Johnson Part One Eric Johnson Part TwoBradley Campbell Part OneBradley Campbell Part TwoAdditional Resources:FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (two volumes totalling over 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Welcome to Dive Into Reiki, an interview series hosted by Nathalie Jaspar that explores the journeys of high-profile Reiki teachers and practitioners.You can support the mission of spreading Reiki education through my Patreon for less than the cost of a cup of coffee or for free by rating this podcast on your app!EPISODE 74: DIVE INTO REIKI WITH RENÉ VÖGTLIRené Vögtli is a Reiki teacher, author, facilitator and mediator. He has been founder and member of numerous Reiki organisations and is the source of Reiki-Conciliation committed to reconciliation within the Reiki community.In 2017, René released the acclaimed Interview-Documentary “Reconciliation – Along the path of Mastery” featuring Phyllis Lei Furumoto. Untill 2023, he hosted the talk-show RTalk – agree to disagree.The current project is titled “RECONCILIATION – Provoke and Evolve. Reiki History through One Man's Journey” and is an Interview-Documentary with Frank Arjava Petter. See https://reiki-conciliation.org/projects/interview-documentary-with-frank-arjava-petter/.NOTE: YOU CAN ACCESS THE BUNDLE WITH A 26% DISCOUNT USING THE CODE DIVER26!You can see my previous interview with René in which we discuss his Reiki journey here.Contact René:Websites: reiki-conciliation.org reiki-international.netFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/reikiconciliationYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/REIKIConciliationInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/reiki.internationalNathalie Jaspar, the founder of Dive Into Reiki,  is a Reiki master with over a decade of experience. She's a graduate teacher from the International House of Reiki, led by world-renowned Reiki master Frans Stiene. She also trained with the Center for True Health and the International Center for Reiki. To gain an even deeper understanding of Reiki practice, Nathalie went to Japan to practice Zen Buddhism at the Chokai-san International Zendo. She is the author of Reiki as a Spiritual Practice: an Illustrated Guide, Reiki Healing Handbook (Rockridge Press), and Infinite Light: Conversation with 21 Reiki masters and practitioners.Support the show

In this episode, we reflect on the shadow self - what it is, and why it's important to accept as a part of our greater self.Questions or thoughts you would like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com

Mountain peaks and summits make for excellent platforms for observing the glory of God. How might the summit of the dormant volcano of Mauna Kea in Hawaii, with its thirteen active telescopes operated by 11 different countries, point us to the glory of God and what God has done for us in Jesus? Thumbnail image: The James Clerk Maxwell Telescope atop Mauna Kea, Hawaii. The telescope is operated by the East Asian Observatory https://www.eaobservatory.org/jcmt/public/gallery/images/ Good Heavens! is a production of Watchman Fellowship, Inc., a nonprofit educational research ministry. Check out Watchman Fellowship's free Profile articles! The profiles provide an insightful analysis of beliefs, individuals, worldviews, and other religions impacting our world today. Charles DarwinNaturalismScientismDeconstructionAtheismRichard DawkinsNihilism Additional Resources: FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free PROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (two volumes totalling over 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/Notebook SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/Give Good Heavens! is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc. Podbean enables our podcast to be on Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.  To support Good Heavens! on Podbean as a patron, you can use the Podbean app, or go to https://patron.podbean.com/goodheavens.  This goes to Wayne Spencer. If you would like to give to the ministry of Watchman Fellowship or to Daniel Ray, you can donate at https://www.watchman.org/daniel. Donations to Watchman are tax deductible.    

Doctrine and Covenants section 9, verse 8 are supposedly the words of the Lord, given through Joseph Smith to Oliver Cowdery in 1829. "But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right." This week and next on the Profile we'll be taking a biblical look the burning in the bosom and how Latter-day Saints testify that they believe the Book of Mormon is true with president of the Institute for Religious Research Dr. Robert M. Bowman, Jr.Dr. Bowman is an evangelical Christian apologist, biblical scholar, author, editor, and lecturer. He has lectured on biblical studies, religion, and apologetics at Biola University, Cornerstone University, and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Rob is the author of over sixty articles and the author or co-author of fifteen books including Jesus' Resurrection and Joseph's Visions: Examining the Foundations of Christianity and Mormonism, Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ, co-authored with J. Ed Komoszewski, and Faith Has Its Reasons: Integrative Approaches to Defending the Christian Faith, co-authored with Kenneth D. Boa. Dr. Bowman holds the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in biblical studies from Fuller Theological Seminary and South African Theological Seminary. He is widely regarded as the leading evangelical scholar addressing the uses and interpretations of the Bible by such religious groups as Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons. LDS linksEncyclopedia of MormonismWho Do Mormons Worship? Resources from Watchman FellowshipPrevious podcasts on Latter-day Saint beliefs, practices, history, and doctrines. Recent podcasts on Mormonism Sandra Tanner Part OneSandra Tanner Part TwoAaron Shafowalof Part OneAaron Shafowalof Part TwoEric Johnson Part One Eric Johnson Part TwoBradley Campbell Part OneBradley Campbell Part TwoAdditional Resources:FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (two volumes totalling over 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, we reflect on the deeper impact of how our perspective on other people affects how we view ourselves.Thoughts or questions you would like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you.

Broadcasting live from Ota City, Tokyo, I'm digging into the quiet power of Zen Buddhism and how it can stop you from going around the twist while building your business. After years of being influenced by Japanese concepts like Kaizen and Ikigai, I've realized that the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path offer the ultimate "treatment plan" for the friction and dissatisfaction we all feel at work. We're looking at why compulsive attachment to outcomes usually messes things up and how shifting your focus to "Right Livelihood" and "Right Mindfulness" keeps you grounded. Whether you're washing dishes, fixing a bike, or teaching a guitar scale, there's a way to do it with more clarity and a lot less nonsense. It's about being excellent to yourself while staying useful to your students. Key Takeaways Ordinary life often contains a sense of friction or "Dukkha," which in a business context shows up as subtle dissatisfaction or the feeling that things are incomplete. Much of our professional stress comes from a compulsive attachment to specific outcomes, like hitting a certain income goal or needing a specific car to feel happy. The Eightfold Path isn't a rigid checklist but a set of interconnected practices—like Right Speech and Right Action—that you embody moment by moment. Right Mindfulness means being fully present in the mundane tasks, whether that's administrative work or teaching a student to play an instrument. Applying these principles helps you see through your own nonsense and ensures you are earning a living in a way that doesn't create suffering for others.  Direct Quotes  I'm just about smarter enough to realise that I don't have all the answers. The issue isn't desire in every sense, but that compulsive never ending grasping and attachment to outcomes. The Eightfold Path is just a route towards enlightenment... it's also how enlightenment is expressed and performed in daily life. They help to keep you grounded. Thinking straight and seeing through your own nonsense. Remember that life is good. Be excellent to yourselves. Stay healthy. Stay useful. VALUABLE RESOURCES www.Neilcowmeadow.com info@neilcowmeadow.com HOST BIO Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years' experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil's invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

Bright on Buddhism - Episode 140 - Who is Bodhidharma? What is his significance to East Asian Buddhism? What are some legends about him?Resources: charya, Raghu (2017), Shanon, Sidharth (ed.), Bodhidharma Retold – A Journey from Sailum to Shaolin, New Delhi: Motilal Banarsidass, ISBN 978-81-208-4152-9Broughton, Jeffrey L. (1999), The Bodhidharma Anthology: The Earliest Records of Zen, Berkeley: University of California Press, ISBN 0-520-21972-4Buswell, Robert E., ed. (2004), Encyclopedia of Buddhism, vol. 1, Macmillan, ISBN 0-02-865718-7Cole, Alan (2009), Fathering Your Father: The Zen of Fabrication in Tang Buddhism, Berkeley, Los Angeles, London: University of California Press, ISBN 978-0-520-25485-5Dumoulin, Heinrich; Heisig, James; Knitter, Paul F. (2005). Zen Buddhism: India and China. World Wisdom, Inc. ISBN 978-0-941532-89-1.Faure, Bernard (1986), "Bodhidharma as Textual and Religious Paradigm", History of Religions, 25 (3): 187–198, doi:10.1086/463039, S2CID 145809479, archived from the original on 2007-09-28, retrieved 2007-02-13Ferguson, Andrew (2000), Zen's Chinese Heritage: The Masters and their Teachings, Somerville: Wisdom Publications, ISBN 0-86171-163-7Garfinkel, Perry (2006), Buddha or Bust, Harmony Books, ISBN 978-1-4000-8217-9Henning, Stanley (1994), "Ignorance, Legend and Taijiquan" (PDF), Journal of the Chenstyle Taijiquan Research Association of Hawaii, 2 (3): 1–7, archived from the original on 2011-02-23, retrieved 2019-10-19Henning, Stan; Green, Tom (2001), "Folklore in the Martial Arts", in Green, Thomas A. (ed.), Martial Arts of the World: An Encyclopedia, Santa Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIOJorgensen, John (2000), "Bodhidharma", in Johnston, William M. (ed.), Encyclopedia of Monasticism: A-L, Taylor & FrancisKambe, Tstuomu (2012), Bodhidharma. A collection of stories from Chinese literature (PDF), archived from the original (PDF) on 2015-11-06, retrieved 2011-11-23McRae, John R. (2000), "The Antecedents of Encounter Dialogue in Chinese Ch'an Buddhism", in Heine, Steven; Wright, Dale S. (eds.), The Kōan: Texts and Contexts in Zen Buddhism, Oxford University Press, archived from the original on 2012-07-25, retrieved 2006-11-30.McRae, John R. (2003), Seeing Through Zen. Encounter, Transformation, and Genealogy in Chinese Chan Buddhism, The University Press Group Ltd, ISBN 978-0-520-23798-8McRae, John R. (2004), Seeing through Zen: Encounter, Transformation, and Genealogy in Chinese Chan Buddhism, University of California PressPine, Red, ed. (1989), The Zen Teaching of Bodhidharma: A Bilingual Edition, New York: North Point Press, ISBN 0-86547-399-4Pine, Red, ed. (2009), The Zen Teaching of Bodhidharma, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, ISBN 978-0-86547-399-7Sekida, Katsuki (1996). Two Zen Classics. Mumonkan, The Gateless Gate. Hekiganroku, The Blue Cliff Records. Translated with commentaries by Katsuki Sekida. New York / Tokyo: Weatherhill.Shahar, Meir (2008). The Shaolin Monastery: history, religion, and the Chinese martial arts. University of Hawaii Press. ISBN 978-0-8248-3110-3.Sutton, Florin Giripescu (1991), Existence and Enlightenment in the Laṅkāvatāra Sūtra: A Study in the Ontology and Epistemology of the Yogācāra School of Mahāyāna Buddhism, Albany: State University of New York Press, ISBN 0-7914-0172-3.Williams, Paul (1989), Mahayana Buddhism: The Doctrinal Foundations, Psychology Press, ISBN 0-415-02537-0_________________________________If you like our show and would like to support us, we encourage you to give your money or resources to a worthy cause. We can get through this. Our strongest weapon is solidarity. Stay strong and help where you can. Thank you.Do you have a question about Buddhism that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by emailing us at Bright.On.Buddhism@gmail.com.Credits:Nick Bright: Script, Cover Art, Music, Voice of Hearer, Co-HostProven Paradox: Editing, mixing and mastering, social media, Voice of Hermit, Co-Host

— In this episode, we delve into how mindfulness and meditation serve as vital tools in connecting with the present, and how therapy cultivates openness to new possibilities. We explore key topics such as defining mental health and human suffering, the role of mindfulness in therapy, and the art of rewriting personal narratives to alleviate anxiety and depression. Samantha shares her insights on nurturing our inner child, transforming language and perception, and utilizing art as a healing medium. Our conversation touches on the complexity of suffering, how simple changes in our environment help combat overstimulation, and the profound impact of finding fullness in stillness. We also discuss the concept of "glimmers" in nature, experiences to cherish before death, and how they aid in overcoming triggers. Throughout the discussion, Samantha shares how mindfulness, creativity, and a simplified life help us embrace authenticity and clarity.  Valeria interviews Samantha Maederer  — She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, with over a decade of experience. With a background in Art Therapy from Florida State University, her unique path intersects art and mental health. Samantha began her career by co-creating a public art installation highlighting patient voices from the Florida State Psychiatric Hospital, and now encourages creativity in her clients to navigate challenges. She spent 12 years in community mental health, offering therapy to survivors of sexual trauma and postpartum clients. Samantha's approach is informed by her own mental health journey and a belief in art as a tool to process experiences. She integrates Zen Buddhism and Daoism principles, helping clients embrace non-judgment and reality awareness. Samantha specializes in working with women with complex trauma histories. She employs somatic work, mindfulness, and focuses on anxiety, panic, and OCD. Her therapeutic approach includes helping clients reconnect with their younger selves. Outside of therapy, Samantha enjoys gardening, kayaking, and promoting a holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing focus and the mind-body connection. Learn more about Samantha Maederer and her work. 

This week we continue our conversation with pastor, author, and publisher at B&H Academic, Dr. Michael McEwen about the influences of 19th-century German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. How did Nietzsche's thought correspond to social Darwinism? We talk further about Nietzsche's Ubermensch, his "will-to-power," and "eternal recurrence" and their influence on our culture today. Be sure to check out Michael's new book we're discussing! The Devil Reads Nietzsche - A Public Theology for the Post-Christian Age. Michael McEwen (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is an author and publisher for B&H Academic and pastor of Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Trenton, Tennessee. Free Watchman Profile articles. The profiles provide an overview of the person and ideas as well as a concise biblical response. Charles DarwinNaturalismScientismDeconstructionAtheismRichard DawkinsNihilismAdditional Resources:FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (two volumes totalling over 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, we reflect on the pivotal importance of rest, and how rest is what enables us to listen, learn and develop spiritually.Questions or thoughts you would like to share? Email me anytime at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you.Thank you for being here - take care and be well!

In this episode, we reflect on how the nature of things can help put into perspective the patterns of behavior we observe in others.Apologies for the late upload and thank you for bearing with the audio of the two travelling episodes!Questions or thoughts? Email me at dailydharmapodcast@gmail.com - I would love to hear from you.

On the last two episodes of the Profile we discussed the influences of 19th-century German philosopher Karl Marx on our culture today. This week and next we'll be examining the influences of another popular 19th-century German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. Nietzsche had a solid Christian upbringing in the Lutheran tradition and a loving relationship with his pastor father Ludwig. Why then did Nietzsche become so hostile toward Christianity in his mature philosophical thought and how do his ideas still influence us today? We'll be examining these and other questions this week and next on the Profile with author, pastor, and publisher with B&H Academic Dr. Michael McEwen. We'll be talking about his new book The Devil Reads Nietzsche - A Public Theology for the Post-Christian Age. Michael McEwen (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is an author and publisher for B&H Academic and pastor of Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Trenton, Tennessee. Free Watchman Profile articles. The profiles provide an overview of the person and ideas as well as a concise biblical response. Charles DarwinNaturalismScientismDeconstructionAtheismRichard DawkinsNihilismAdditional Resources:FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (two volumes totalling over 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Lindy Lee is Chinese-Australian artist and zen practitioner.As a little girl growing up in Brisbane in the era of the White Australia policy, Lindy lived through the pain of always feeling different.It took her many years to find the power in what she calls the 'tearing' in her identity.When she began using it as fuel for her art, she began to make work based on her own family story, and her Zen practice.Lindy is now one of Australia's leading contemporary artists.This episode of Conversations was first broadcast in 2022 

Why do we keep feeding the habits, thoughts, and emotions that make us suffer? Eric Zimmer explores addiction, anxiety, depression, radical acceptance, Zen Buddhism, mindfulness, emotional healing, and the hidden psychology behind self-destruction. He explains the “good wolf vs bad wolf,” letting go of control, rewiring negative thought patterns, and finding inner peace through small daily choices. SPONSORS!

This week we continue our conversation with President and CEO of Ratio Christi Dr. Corey Miller about the baleful influences of Karl Marx's ideologies in our nation's colleges and universities and how we as Christians can and should respond with intelligence, compassion, and wisdom. We will continue talking about his latest book The Progressive Miseducation of America: Confronting the Cultural Revolution from the Classroom to Your Community (Harvest House, 2025). Corey Miller, PhD, is the President/CEO of Ratio Christi (2015-Present). While he grew up in Utah as a seventh generation Mormon, he came to Christ in 1988. He has served on pastoral staff at four churches and has taught nearly 100 college courses in philosophy, theology, rhetoric, and comparative religions at various places (Purdue, Indiana University, Multnomah University and Ecola Bible College). He is also author or co-author of Leaving Mormonism: Why Four Scholars Changed their Minds (2017), Engaging with Mormons: Understanding their World, Sharing Good News (2020), Responding to the Mormon Missionary Movement (2023), and The Progressive Miseducation of America: Confronting the Cultural Revolution from the Classroom to Your Community (2025). Dr. Miller holds masters degrees in philosophy, biblical studies, and in philosophy of religion and ethics. Free Watchman Profile articles. The profiles provide an overview of the person and ideas as well as a concise biblical response. Charles DarwinNaturalismScientismDeconstructionAtheismRichard DawkinsNihilismAdditional Resources:FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (two volumes totalling over 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this deeply nourishing conversation, I sit down with Dr. Alysha Mackenzie-Feder, a pediatrician from Kelowna, BC, to explore the critical difference between empathy and compassion in healthcare. Alysha shares how her journey through Zen Buddhism and contemplative practices transformed her understanding of physician wellbeing and patient care, revealing why "compassion fatigue" might actually be empathetic distress. We dive into emotions as physiological experiences, the hidden curriculum of medical training, and how creating community might be our path through these challenging times in healthcare. This episode offers both the language and practical tools to move from drowning in our patients' emotions to standing alongside them with an open heart and strong back.Connect with Alysha:Website: https://www.adeeperwell.ca/Substack: https://adeeperwell.substack.com/Learn more about Hippocratic Collective: https://hippocraticcollective.org/Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joanchanmd

Former character actor Peter Coyote joins Will to talk about his new book Smothered by Riches, a polemic on the collapse of the New Deal consensus and the legacy of the Powell memo. He and Will talk about the history of neoliberalism from the Chicago boys to Bill Clinton, Peter's decades-long political life including time in an Anarchist theater troupe, and a bit of Zen Buddhism for good measure. Pick up a copy of Smothered by Riches wherever you can: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/smothered-by-riches-peter-coyote/1147458103

While the Berlin Wall no longer divides Germany, the ideas that led to its construction are still actively dividing our country today.  Sadly, Marxism is still alive and well and influencing a myriad of cultural divisions, mostly through our nation's colleges and universities.  This week and next on the Profile, we'll be examining some of the basics of Marxist ideology and how it has made inroads into our institutions of higher education with author, and president of Ratio Christi, Dr. Corey Miller. Miller will share his experiences and wisdom in engaging what he calls the "Progressive Miseducation of America" on college and university campuses and how we as Christians should be aware of it and how we can respond. Corey Miller, PhD, is the President/CEO of Ratio Christi (2015-Present). While he grew up in Utah as a seventh generation Mormon, he came to Christ in 1988. He has served on pastoral staff at four churches and has taught nearly 100 college courses in philosophy, theology, rhetoric, and comparative religions at various places (Purdue, Indiana University, Multnomah University and Ecola Bible College). He is also author or co-author of Leaving Mormonism: Why Four Scholars Changed their Minds (2017), Engaging with Mormons: Understanding their World, Sharing Good News (2020), Responding to the Mormon Missionary Movement (2023), and The Progressive Miseducation of America: Confronting the Cultural Revolution from the Classroom to Your Community (2025). Dr. Miller holds masters degrees in philosophy, biblical studies, and in philosophy of religion and ethics. Free Watchman Profile articles. The profiles provide an overview of the person and ideas as well as a concise biblical response. Charles DarwinNaturalismScientismDeconstructionAtheismRichard DawkinsNihilismAdditional Resources:FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (two volumes totalling over 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Welcome to Dive Into Reiki, an interview series hosted by Nathalie Jaspar that explores the journeys of high-profile Reiki teachers and practitioners.You can support the mission of spreading Reiki education through my Patreon for less than the cost of a cup of coffee or for free by rating this podcast on your app!EPISODE 73: DIVE INTO REIKI WITH FERNANDA FEIJOFernanda Feijó is a Brazilian-born Traditional Japanese Reiki Master, author, and founder of Reiki Time Academy, now based in New Zealand. She is the author of The Power of Reiki and the Feminine and has trained extensively in Reiki both in Brazil and internationally, including recent studies in New Zealand.Through her work, Fernanda weaves together Reiki, feminine wisdom, emotional healing, and spiritual growth in a way that feels both grounded and contemporary. Through her school, teachings, and events, she has supported thousands of women in deepening their Reiki practice and creating more aligned, intentional lives.You can follow Fernanda on Instagram or YouTube. Nathalie Jaspar, the founder of Dive Into Reiki,  is a Reiki master with over a decade of experience. She's a graduate teacher from the International House of Reiki, led by world-renowned Reiki master Frans Stiene. She also trained with the Center for True Health and the International Center for Reiki. To gain an even deeper understanding of Reiki practice, Nathalie went to Japan to practice Zen Buddhism at the Chokai-san International Zendo. She is the author of Reiki as a Spiritual Practice: an Illustrated Guide, Reiki Healing Handbook (Rockridge Press), and Infinite Light: Conversation with 21 Reiki masters and practitioners.Support the show

What does it really mean to build a life around practice — not just on the mat, but in how you love, how you work, and how you show up for your community? In this rich and wide-ranging conversation, Harmony Slater welcomes Sonia and Luis, the founders of Agora Lisboa — a space in Portugal dedicated to yoga, meditation, and the deep study of Buddhist philosophy. This is a couple who left careers in international development and high finance, followed the thread of practice across continents, and landed in Lisbon to build something rare: a community where dharma and asana are not separate from how you live. In this episode, you'll discover: Why Sonia chose yoga over a prestigious French government contract — and what her teacher said that changed everything How Luis discovered Zen Buddhism through the beauty of Japanese temple gardens at age 20 — and then meditated alone for 12 years The humbling moment Luis realized community is non-negotiable on the path to freedom What the ancient Greek word 'agora' has in common with Sanskrit and Portuguese — and why it became the perfect name Why crises are turning points (not breakdowns) — and the etymology that proves it How Ashtanga yoga and Buddhist meditation aren't just compatible — they're sibling traditions The difference between practicing for self-improvement and practicing for freedom Why you can't build an island of happiness in an ocean of misery — and what that means for your community Sonia's beautiful story of finding her pranayama practice while rocking her twins to sleep Why Harmony is teaching at Agora Lisboa June 25–28 — and how you can join her Sonia was born in France to a Brazilian mother and French father, trained at Ashtanga Yoga Paris, and worked in international development across Africa before stepping fully into teaching. Luis grew up in Colombia, moved to France at 18, discovered Zen Buddhism in Japan, and spent a decade in finance before burnout and love conspired to change everything. Together, they created Agora Lisboa — a name that holds multitudes: the Greek marketplace, the Portuguese word for 'now,' and a Sanskrit term for light. Whether you're navigating your own crossroads, deepening a contemplative practice, or longing for community that holds your whole life — this episode is for you. CONNECT WITH SONIA & LUIS: Website: agora-lisboa.com Instagram: @agora_lisboa  JOIN HARMONY IN LISBON: Harmony teaches at Agora Lisboa, June 25–28. Register at agora-lisboa.com. SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW: If this episode moved you, please leave a 5-star review and share it with someone who is living their practice off the mat. Your reviews help more seekers find this show. The Inner Rejuvenation Codes: https://harmonyslater.kit.com/inner-rejuvenation-codes-mc Join the Lightworker Mastermind:  https://harmonyslater.com/lightworker-mastermind FIND Harmony online: https://harmonyslater.com/ Harmony on IG: https://www.instagram.com/harmonyslaterofficial/ Finding Harmony Podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/findingharmonypodcast/ FREE Manifestation Activation: https://harmonyslater.kit.com/manifestation-activation

What does it really mean to build a life around practice — not just on the mat, but in how you love, how you work, and how you show up for your community? In this rich and wide-ranging conversation, Harmony Slater welcomes Sonia and Luis, the founders of Agora Lisboa — a space in Portugal dedicated to yoga, meditation, and the deep study of Buddhist philosophy. This is a couple who left careers in international development and high finance, followed the thread of practice across continents, and landed in Lisbon to build something rare: a community where dharma and asana are not separate from how you live. In this episode, you'll discover: Why Sonia chose yoga over a prestigious French government contract — and what her teacher said that changed everything How Luis discovered Zen Buddhism through the beauty of Japanese temple gardens at age 20 — and then meditated alone for 12 years The humbling moment Luis realized community is non-negotiable on the path to freedom What the ancient Greek word 'agora' has in common with Sanskrit and Portuguese — and why it became the perfect name Why crises are turning points (not breakdowns) — and the etymology that proves it How Ashtanga yoga and Buddhist meditation aren't just compatible — they're sibling traditions The difference between practicing for self-improvement and practicing for freedom Why you can't build an island of happiness in an ocean of misery — and what that means for your community Sonia's beautiful story of finding her pranayama practice while rocking her twins to sleep Why Harmony is teaching at Agora Lisboa June 25–28 — and how you can join her Sonia was born in France to a Brazilian mother and French father, trained at Ashtanga Yoga Paris, and worked in international development across Africa before stepping fully into teaching. Luis grew up in Colombia, moved to France at 18, discovered Zen Buddhism in Japan, and spent a decade in finance before burnout and love conspired to change everything. Together, they created Agora Lisboa — a name that holds multitudes: the Greek marketplace, the Portuguese word for 'now,' and a Sanskrit term for light. Whether you're navigating your own crossroads, deepening a contemplative practice, or longing for community that holds your whole life — this episode is for you. CONNECT WITH SONIA & LUIS: Website: agora-lisboa.com Instagram: @agora_lisboa  JOIN HARMONY IN LISBON: Harmony teaches at Agora Lisboa, June 25–28. Register at agora-lisboa.com. SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW: If this episode moved you, please leave a 5-star review and share it with someone who is living their practice off the mat. Your reviews help more seekers find this show. The Inner Rejuvenation Codes: https://harmonyslater.kit.com/inner-rejuvenation-codes-mc Join the Lightworker Mastermind:  https://harmonyslater.com/lightworker-mastermind FIND Harmony online: https://harmonyslater.com/ Harmony on IG: https://www.instagram.com/harmonyslaterofficial/ Finding Harmony Podcast on IG: https://www.instagram.com/findingharmonypodcast/ FREE Manifestation Activation: https://harmonyslater.kit.com/manifestation-activation

SPONSORS:- Accelerate your efficiency. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at http://shopify.com/theories- Go to https://shortform.com/toe for a free trial and an exclusive $50 OFF on your annual subscription- I subscribe to The Economist for their science and tech coverage. As a TOE listener, get 35% off! No other podcast has this: https://economist.com/TOESlavoj Žižek doesn't answer your question — he dismantles it, rebuilds it, and hands you something stranger and more useful than what you started with. Philosopher, provocateur, and self-described pessimist, he's spent decades insisting on something most thinkers shy away from: that freedom isn't the absence of necessity — it's the moment you choose what you fundamentally are. The fall comes first. Paradise was never real to begin with. Reality is the gap, not the thing on either side of it. FOLLOW: - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gL14b92xAErofYQA7bU4e - Substack: https://curtjaimungal.substack.com/subscribe - Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOEwithCurt - Discord Invite: https://discord.com/invite/kBcnfNVwqs - Crypto: https://commerce.coinbase.com/checkout/de803625-87d3-4300-ab6d-85d4258834a9 - PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=XUBHNMFXUX5S4 TIMESTAMPS:- 00:00:00 - Socrates and Radical Freedom- 00:05:02 - Quantum Indeterminacy vs. Freedom- 00:10:06 - Ontological Collapse Paradoxes- 00:15:07 - Adorno and Social Antinomies- 00:20:36 - Democritus: Less Than Nothing- 00:25:40 - Sartre and Existential Choice- 00:30:45 - Freudian Death Drive- 00:36:01 - Heidegger and Hysterical Awareness- 00:42:10 - Imp of Perversity- 00:48:07 - Einstein vs. Bohr- 00:53:15 - God's Ontological Laziness- 00:58:17 - Hegel's Retroactive Necessity- 01:03:41 - Digital Spirituality and AI- 01:09:18 - Stalin and Failed Projects- 01:14:41 - Hegel in a Wired Brain- 01:20:10 - Religious Convictions and Physics- 01:25:12 - Zen Buddhism and WarLINKS MENTIONED: - Slavoj's Books: https://amazon.com/stores/author/B000APK7P8- Philosophical Investigations into Human Freedom: https://amazon.com/dp/0791468747?tag=toe08-20- Freedom: A Disease Without Cure: https://amazon.com/dp/1350559164?tag=toe08-20- Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals: https://www.earlymoderntexts.com/assets/pdfs/kant1785.pdf- Binding, Minds & the Platonic Realm [Lecture]: https://youtu.be/0BVM0UC28nY- Quantum Healing: https://amazon.com/dp/0553348698?tag=toe08-20- Republic of Silence: https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/1944/12/paris-alive-the-republic-of-silence/656012/- Discourse on the Origin of Inequality: https://amazon.com/dp/0486434141?tag=toe08-20- Beyond the Pleasure Principle: https://www.sas.upenn.edu/~cavitch/pdf-library/Freud_Beyond_P_P.pdf- Philosophy of Spirit: https://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/hegel/jlindex.htm- Hegelian Reading of the New Science of Consciousness: https://www.crisiscritique.org/storage/app/media/2025-08-25/slavoj-zizek.pdf- The Mirror Stage: https://english.hku.hk/staff/kjohnson/PDF/LacanMirrorStageECRITS.pdf- Being and Time: https://amazon.com/dp/0061575593?tag=toe08-20- Less Than Nothing: https://amazon.com/dp/1781681279?tag=toe08-20- The Imp of the Perverse: https://web.english.upenn.edu/~cavitch/pdf-library/Poe_Imp.pdf- Einstein-Bohr Debate: https://www.marxists.org/reference/subject/philosophy/works/dk/bohr.htm- Ages of the World: https://amazon.com/dp/1438474059?tag=toe08-20- Quantum History: https://amazon.com/dp/135056642X?tag=toe08-20- Phenomenology of Spirit: https://amazon.com/dp/0198245971?tag=toe08-20- Philosophy of Right: https://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/hegel/works/pr/preface.htm- White Holes: https://amazon.com/dp/B0BTKZVJJK?tag=toe08-20- Science of Logic: https://amazon.com/dp/1542519918?tag=toe08-20- End of History and the Last Man: https://amazon.com/dp/0743284550?tag=toe08-20More links at https://curtjaimungal.substack.com Guests do not pay to appear. #science Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryōkan Taigu (1758–1831) was a quiet and unconventional Sōtō Zen Buddhist monk who lived much of his life as a hermit. Ryōkan is remembered for his poetry and calligraphy, which present the essence of Zen life. He renounced the world at an early age to train at nearby Sōtō Zen temple Kōshō-ji, refusing to meet with or accept charity from his family.These selected excerpts and poems by Ryokan have been taken from the text "Great Fool" translated by Ryuichi Abé & Peter Haskel.

What if the patterns driving today's global instability have been repeating for far longer than we realize?I sit down with Alex Sachon, a philosopher trained in the social sciences who uses ancient philosophy to make sense of the rapidly shifting social, cultural, and geopolitical landscape we're living through. His work brings together esoteric philosophy, historical analysis, and a systems-level view of civilization to explain how we arrived at this moment.We trace how early exposure to Daoism and Zen Buddhism opened the door to deeper questions about consciousness, and how that eventually intersected with the study of empire, financial systems, and the evolution of power structures. His recent book, The Coming World Nation, outlines a model of social hierarchy and offers a revisionist look at the last 200 years of American history.If you've ever felt like something about the current system doesn't add up, but couldn't quite articulate why, this conversation helps connect those dots. It's especially relevant for people who question mainstream narratives, think in systems, and want a deeper framework for understanding where we might be headed next.You'll Learn:[00:00] Introduction[07:26] Why humans keep choosing rulers, even when it destroys them[17:02] The one thing keeping the masses from organizing against the elite[28:44] Soft power, hard control, how empire stopped needing soldiers[40:38] Free energy, anti-gravity, and why even the ruling class was kept in the dark[01:01:50] What's really behind UFO disclosure, and who's engineering it[01:19:04] Atlantis, astrology, and a 25,000-year pattern we're living through today[01:35:39] Karma, cosmic justice, and why the elite's arrogance is already their punishment[01:43:41] What you bring with you when you die, and how psychedelics show you first[01:53:12] Shakespeare, Masonry, and a secret lineage hiding in plain sight[02:21:51] Philosophy, science, religion; why all three collapse without each otherFull show notes at https://lukestorey.com/wisdomResources Mentioned:Read: Tao Te Ching by Laozi | BookThe Century of the Self | IMDb Westworld | IMDbCarl Jung, Stanislav Grof, and the Science of the Soul by Sachon, A. | Article Read: The Collected Works of C. G. Jung, Vol. 10: Civilization in Transition by C. G. Jung | BookRead: The Scientist in the Crib: What Early Learning Tells Us About the Mind by Alison Gopnik | BookRead: The Secret Teachings of All Ages by Manly P. Hall | BookRead: Manly P. Hall: The Maestro of Esoteric Philosophy by Alex Sachon | BookCracking the Shakespeare Code: The Seven Steps to Mercy | YouTubeRead: The Lost Keys of Freemasonry: The Legend of Hiram Abiff by Manly P. Hall | BookFind more from Alex:Alex Sachon | WebsiteThe Wisdom Tradition | Substack | Instagram | YouTubeFind more from Luke:Luke Storey | Instagram | Facebook | X | YouTube | LinkedInTHE LIFE STYLIST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:QUANTUM UPGRADE | Visit lukestorey.com/quantumupgrade and use code LUKE15 to get your 15-day free trial.REAL PROVISIONS | Visit RealProvisions.com/luke and enter the promo code LUKE to get a free bag of Venison Chips with your order.BIOPTIMIZERS | Visit bioptimizers.com/luke to save 15% off sitewide.BON CHARGE | Use the code LIFESTYLIST for 15% off at boncharge.com/lifestylist.Get Alex's book, The Coming World Nation: Why Global Government Is Inevitable.