The Modern Buddhism Podcast

In today’s episode, Gen Rabten explores one of the biggest questions we can ask about our lives: what is the point? He explains how modern life can leave us feeling increasingly purposeless, whether through anxiety about the future, the pressure to achieve success, changing ideas about work and wealth, or the realization that the things we thought would make us happy often fail to provide lasting fulfilment. Drawing on the teachings of Buddha and the wisdom of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, he examines why we can become trapped in repeatedly chasing temporary sources of happiness while overlooking the deeper sources of peace within our own mind. Referencing The New Eight Steps to Happiness and How to Understand the Mind, he explores how wisdom, compassion, kindness, and training the mind can give our lives a genuine sense of meaning. The conversation also considers how we can make a difference in the world by changing the way we respond to conflict, difficulty, and the people around us. Ultimately, this…

In today's episode, host Rebecca Gauthier interviews Buddhist monk Gen Kelsang Dragpa. Gen Dragpa shares his journey from a discontented youth to finding deep purpose through Kadampa Buddhism. Reflecting on his personal struggles with anger, expectations, and a painful relationship separation, he explains how Buddha's teachings function as a supportive mirror - helping us understand our own minds rather than blaming external circumstances. He discusses the power of simple meditation practices, the transformative experience of meeting his spiritual guide Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, and the reality of navigating inner challenges even after ordination. Through candid reflections on avoiding perfectionism and resisting instant gratification, this conversation highlights how working on inner peace creates genuine, positive change in the world around us. 00:00 Early Discontentment and Quest for Freedom 05:54 Reggae, Relationships, and Searching for Control 11:15 Discovering the Practical Science of Meditation…

In today’s episode, we explore the deeply personal and transformative practice of forgiveness - and why letting go of resentment is ultimately about changing our own mind rather than waiting for someone else to apologize or make things right. The guest explains how our experience of hurt can become tied to blame, self-blame, and the mistaken belief that our faults or painful experiences define who we are. Drawing on Buddhist teachings and the advice of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, including teachings from The New Eight Steps to Happiness, she explores how we can learn to recognize our faults without identifying with them, understand the perspectives and suffering of others, and develop a healthier relationship with our own mistakes. The conversation examines betrayal, neglect, difficult childhood experiences, anger, resentment, and the expectations we hold about how life and other people should have treated us. Through the practice of patient acceptance, we can begin to let go of the painful idea that…

In today’s episode, Gen Kelsang Sherab shares the remarkable journey that took him from being a professional musician in Israel and the Netherlands to becoming a Buddhist monk and meditation teacher. Looking back on his early search for meaning, he describes the quiet sense that something was missing from his life, even when everything appeared successful from the outside. His encounter with Kadampa Buddhism introduced him to teachings that helped him understand the nature of samsara, the importance of moral discipline, and the possibility of transforming the mind through meditation. He recalls the books that first captured his attention, including Clear Light of Bliss, Tantric Grounds and Paths, Introduction to Buddhism, and Joyful Path of Good Fortune, and explains how these teachings gradually changed the direction of his life. Sherab also reflects on his mother’s death, difficult experiences with his family, his decision to give up music, and the painful process of realizing that the Buddhist path he had…

In today's episode, Kadam Michelle draws on 25+ years as a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso to explore how to find peace amid genuine uncertainty. Recounting her years as a resident teacher through three major hurricanes in Florida, she describes what she calls the "cone of uncertainty" - the idea that our entire life, not just a storm's path, is already pervaded by unpredictability. She explains the practice of patient acceptance: peacefully accepting whatever arises rather than rejecting it, since rejection never changes reality and only adds mental pain on top of an already difficult situation. Michelle shares how thinking of our possessions, and even our own bodies, as merely "borrowed" for this life helps loosen the grip of attachment, and how meditating on death - not to create fear, but to clarify what truly matters - transforms daily interactions into something meaningful. She also addresses a common objection: doesn't real change require anger? Drawing a distinction between the…

In today’s episode, Gen Chodor reflects on a powerful feeling he had as a young person - that life seemed almost dream-like - and how this sparked a deep search for meaning and purpose. Drawing on the wisdom of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, he explores how meditation can help us see reality more clearly, free ourselves from distraction, and discover a deeper, more lasting sense of inner peace. The conversation explores the transformative impact of meeting authentic spiritual teachings, the decision to dedicate one's life to Dharma practice, and the profound benefits of training the mind. Through personal stories and practical insights, Gen Chodor shows how genuine happiness and purpose arise not from external achievements, but from developing wisdom, compassion, and a positive state of mind. Chapters 00:00 Questioning Reality and Finding Buddhism 05:21 Meaning, Happiness and Inner Development 10:09 Morning Meditation and Setting Direction 13:03 Leaving Corporate Life Behind 20:18 Death,…

In today's episode, Gen Kelsang Chökyong - a Buddhist monk from Wales - shares the story of how he stumbled into a Dharma class while sheltering from the rain with a kebab, and never left. Drawing on nearly thirty years of practice and teaching within the New Kadampa Tradition, he explores why the mind - not external circumstances - is the true source of all our happiness and suffering. He explains the Buddhist concept of self-grasping ignorance and how this single delusion drives everything from daily irritation and relationship problems to the world's largest conflicts. Gen Chökyong highlights how meditation and compassion gradually erode this grasping, revealing a natural peace that was always there. He shares life-changing insights into the nature of feelings - pointing out that most of what torments us is just a feeling, and feelings always pass. He concludes with a very helpful approach to making mistakes. Instead of turning on ourself, we can realize that without making mistakes it’s unlikely that…

n today's episode, Kadam Mick Marcon explores one of the biggest challenges in life - how to cope with uncertainty. Drawing on his own experience of losing his mother, witnessing a stranger's fear on a turbulent flight, and years of practising and teaching within the New Kadampa Tradition, he reveals why our struggle with uncertainty runs far deeper than the unpredictable events of the outside world. He explains how unrealistic expectations - the wish for things to be permanent in a world defined by impermanence - are at the very root of our suffering, and why no amount of external change has ever, or will ever, resolve this inner conflict. Kadam Mick walks us through the tools Buddhism has to offer for working with the mind - from breathing meditation to the contemplation of impermanence - and distinguishes between the pain of attachment and the freedom of genuine love. Whether you are struggling to let go of a past relationship, facing the loss of someone you love, or simply overwhelmed by the chaos of the…

In today’s episode, Gen Kelsang Norden explores the meaning of karma and how understanding it can become a liberating and empowering force in our lives. Speaking from her heart and her own experience of practicing these teachings, she explains how our thoughts and actions shape the way we experience the world and what we encounter in the future. We learn that karma is something we can actively reshape through the choices we make each day. By recognizing that our experiences arise from our own past actions, we can free ourselves from the painful mental states of blame, victimhood, and resentment, and instead cultivate genuine personal responsibility and inner freedom. Gen Norden also explains the “mirror of karma,” the idea that every experience reflects our actions back to us, helping us to live with greater integrity and authenticity. She reminds us that at the end of our lives, what remains with us is not how others saw us, but the imprints of our own actions. Alongside this, she shares transformative…

Cameron Mathison Opens Up About Facing Hate on Social Media Part 2 of 2 (Part 1 is here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3oSYw1flcsUDbauL2feq0h?si=rPsZdHERQOeZcLyr9TqXfA ) In this second part of the interview with actor Cameron Mathison, we learn how it feels to play one of TV's most despised characters. Cameron explains how he was able to see the truth of Buddha's teachings reflected in the character, using it as a mirror that helped him deepen his own spiritual training. However, the training didn't stop there. Cameron faced online hate as well as real-life confrontations from people unable to separate the role from the man behind it. He reflects on how he was able to transform these difficult experiences into spiritual growth that helps and inspires others. The feature concludes with a powerful message: that being authentic and accountable is the foundation of true strength and resilience. Chapters 00:00 How Playing a Villain Mirrors the Mind 05:02 Handling Hate & Public Criticism 08:47 Building…

Cameron Mathison on how he rebuilt his life after the LA fires, cancer, death, and divorce In today’s episode, we’re delighted to welcome actor and talk show host Cameron Mathison, who shares his deeply personal journey—from success in the entertainment industry to discovering lasting inner peace through the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. Cameron opens up about a series of profound life challenges, including his battle with cancer, his mother’s dementia and passing, job loss, the breakdown of his marriage, and the devastating loss of his home in a fire—along with the memories it held. In this honest and inspiring conversation, he explains how meditation and Buddhist practice helped him not only navigate these hardships, but transform his experience—becoming happier, freer, and more resilient in the process. Chapters 00:00 When Success Was Not Enough 05:12 Discovering Kadampa Meditation 10:18 Learning to Work With the Mind 15:02 Practicing Dharma in the Entertainment Industry 19:03…

I Grieved for 20 Years… Until I Learned This We are delighted to welcome back Gen Gomlam in this powerful episode. How do you transform the pain of loss into something life-enhancing? In this conversation, Gen Gomlam – a Buddhist nun and former hospice nurse – shares her deeply personal journey through grief, from the loss of her brother to the healing of her relationship with her father. Drawing on Buddha's teachings on the mind, she explores how attachment keeps us locked in pain, why grief isn't the badge of love we think it is, and how real happiness can only be found within. Whether you're navigating loss right now or simply want to understand your mind better, this conversation offers practical wisdom and genuine hope. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:24 Early Experiences With Loss 04:11 Pain Comes From Our Reaction 06:41 Understanding Attachment 11:27 Prolonged Grief Is Attachment 19:07 Love Doesn't Die When They Die 20:36 Healing With Her Father 27:02 Tara's Mantra and the Funeral 31:03 Looking for…

In today’s episode, Kadam Adam speaks with Shelley about her journey through illness, business leadership, and spiritual transformation, explaining how facing cancer became a powerful wake-up call to re-examine her priorities. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, she reflects on the challenges of bringing compassion and wisdom into the workplace, especially when making difficult decisions such as letting staff go or navigating ethical dilemmas. She describes how meditation helped her develop a long-term perspective on happiness and success, and how applying Buddhist principles in daily life transformed not only her own mind but also the way she related to others. This episode shows how difficulties can become the fuel for spiritual growth and how, by training our mind with patience and compassion, we can find meaning and purpose even in the hardest moments. Chapters 00:00 Facing Cancer & Wake-Up Call 05:10 Business Career & Ethical Challenges 10:40 Bringing Compassion…

In today’s episode, Gen Rinchung reflects on loss, grief, spiritual growth, and the transformative power of Dharma. Drawing on her personal experience of losing her brother at a young age and her subsequent search for meaning, she shares how this loss revealed there was something within herself that was causing her pain. Seeing how destructive mental states shaped her suffering set her on a quest to find a spiritual teacher—someone who could teach her about her mind and how to work with it. Meeting Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche profoundly changed her life. This episode explores how changing our mind is the only realistic way to change the world, bringing hope, purpose, and deep peace, and how authentic spiritual practice helps us live a more meaningful and compassionate life. Chapters 00:00 Facing Death and Loss 05:20 Losing Her Brother and Grief 10:00 Spiritual Search and Meeting Venerable Geshe-la 15:20 Meeting Venerable Geshe-la and Authentic Dharma 20:02 Changing the Mind, Changing the World…

In this episode, Gen Ananda explores the Buddhist practice of patience, understanding it as a profound practice of acceptance - not passive tolerance, but a powerful method for transforming anger, conflict, and emotional pain. Through real-life examples, personal stories, and Kadampa Buddhist wisdom, we learn how patience creates inner freedom, courage in difficult conversations, and a healthier way to meet conflict - without suppressing our feelings or fueling them. A deep, practical conversation on emotional maturity, forgiveness, and changing the world by changing the mind. Chapters 00:00 Why Patience Matters 05:20 Working with Anger & Emotional Triggers 09:20 Courage, Conflict & Inner Freedom 13:45 Conflict Without Drama 17:20 Healthy Ways to Process Anger 22:15 Meditation as Real-Life Training 25:20 Conflict with the World & Society 33:45 Forgiveness & Letting Go of Blame 40:00 Healing Through Responsibility & Insight Book References Modern Buddhism: https://kadampa.org/book/modern-buddhism How to…

In today’s episode, Gen Demo shares her journey of working with the mind through Kadampa Buddhism and how this practice has transformed her experience of happiness and meaning. Reflecting on her early encounters with Buddhist teachings, international festivals, and meeting Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, she explains how learning to observe and train the mind gradually shifted her priorities and sense of fulfillment. Gen Demo describes how ordination and daily practice helped her see that unhappiness is not caused by external conditions, but by the way the mind responds to them. Through practical examples and personal insight, she shows how difficulties can become opportunities for inner growth, and how cultivating a peaceful, flexible mind leads to a stable happiness that does not depend on circumstances. This episode highlights the Kadampa approach to modern life - using meditation, reflection, and compassion to turn everyday experiences into a meaningful spiritual path. Chapters 00:00…

In today’s episode, Gen Chogma shares her personal journey of working with anxiety and panic attacks, explaining how meditation transformed her relationship with her mind. Drawing on her lived experience and the teachings of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, she explains how intense feelings can seem overwhelmingly real, even when nothing is actually wrong externally, and why it is so important to control our mind—otherwise, it can easily deceive us. Through clear, honest examples from everyday life, she explores how learning to watch the mind helps us recognize the early stages of anxiety, create inner space, and gradually regain a sense of control. Rather than suppressing difficult emotions, this episode shows how gently pacifying the mind allows thoughts and feelings to settle naturally, like waves calming on an ocean. This conversation highlights a deeply practical approach to meditation and mental training that many people will find beneficial. Chapters 00:00 Panic, Anxiety, and First Meditation 05:30 Learning to…

WHY OUR OWN THOUGHTS THAT SCARE US - & HOW TO FACE THEM In today’s episode, Kadam Lucy James explores the challenges of modern life and the difficulty many people face in keeping their mind peaceful. Drawing on her experience and the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, she explains how our minds are often dominated by uncontrolled, anxious, or judgmental thoughts - a state that has become normalized in today’s fast-paced, distraction-filled world. She points out that most people are unable to sit quietly with their own thoughts, and so are forced to fill their life with busyness and distraction, which creates a vicious circle of mental pain. Using the powerful analogy of the mind as a vast, clear sky and thoughts as passing clouds, she demonstrates how meditation helps us step back from our delusions, gain perspective, and cultivate a deeper sense of self. This episode emphasizes that peace is already present within us, and by gently letting go of distracting thoughts, we can develop the space to be…

In today’s episode Gen Kelsang Leksang shares her personal journey from a high-powered corporate career to a spiritual life as a Buddhist nun and teacher. Reflecting on her life, she reveals how experiences that once felt like failures were, in fact, profoundly beneficial—shaping her personal development and inner growth. She explains that when life appears to be falling apart, peace and purpose can be found by letting go of attachment, adjusting our expectations, and training the mind in acceptance. Drawing on the wisdom of the New Kadampa Tradition, Gen Leksang explores how focusing on others, cultivating compassion, and developing inner acceptance can transform suffering into clarity and confidence. This episode offers heartfelt reflections on death, purpose, career pressure, and happiness — showing how even life’s most painful moments can become profound teachers. Insightful, practical, and uplifting, this conversation gently challenges modern ideas of success and invites us to discover a deeper, more…

Is it really possible to fulfill your dreams? Can you be truly happy all the time? Agnes explores these profound questions with Buddhist nun Kelsang Sama, offering insights into how we can transform our lives by improving our minds with confidence and wisdom. Sama explains how inner change leads to a life that supports spiritual growth and lasting happiness. Book references:How to Transform Your Life ~ https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-...Kelsang Sama is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Manchester in the UK. https://kmcmanchester.org/The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/WANT MORE? • FREEDOM FROM ANXIETY: BUDDHIST MEDITATIONS... Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search...Listen to teaching clips: / nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEy... Follow the Modern Buddhism PodcastFacebook: / modernbuddhismpodcast…

Buddhist teacher Kadam Morten Clausen talks with Agnes about his 30 years of living and teaching in the Big Apple: the challenges of modern city life and what they've taught him, and his experience of decades of practising meditation and mindfulness in New York City. Morten is the National Spiritual Director of the New Kadampa Tradition for the Eastern United States and regularly teaches all around the world; he is the resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center New York City: https://meditationinnewyork.org ----- The guests of these podcasts are practising Buddhists who meditate according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org WANT MORE? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U5J8JlJq2Y Find a meditation center near you: https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow The Modern Buddhism Podcast Instagram:…

In this episode, Adam is joined by Marlise Anthonioz, who discusses openly how her meditation practice has taken her from a place of depression and hopelessness to a joyful optimism, enabling her to live a full and happy life. She discusses how family life was causing her to feel unhappy and unfulfilled and how her Buddhist meditation practice transformed her experience. A desire to understand the deeper meaning of life led her to search and question others. She discovered that meditation was the pathway through which she could open her heart to truly love her partner and be a better mother to her children. This podcast will inspire those who feel overwhelmed by family life to see how it can become a way of achieving our potential to love and to feel genuine happiness. Having been born in Cameroon and raised in poverty, Marlise is now the teacher at Centre Boudhiste Lyon in France. https://meditation-lyon.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa…

Kadam Morten Clausen talks about how our limited or negative view of ourself is the basis for low self esteem. Then how we can change our view of what the self is and through this develop a new way of identifying ourself that gives authentic higher self esteem and we can learn to be happy with ourself. In today’s podcast, Kadam Morten talks about a very important topic—the way we view ourselves and how this view shapes our self-esteem. It's something that many of us struggle with: the negative self-talk, the limiting beliefs, and the sense of not being enough. Kadam Morten explores how our limited or negative view of ourselves is actually the foundation of low self-esteem. But here's the good news: We have the power to change how we see ourselves, and in doing so, we can unlock a higher, more authentic sense of self-esteem and happiness. So, how do we make this change? Listen to find out. Book references How to Transform Your Life: https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl Kadam Morten is the…

Our thoughts don't define our reality, yet we often buy into negative beliefs about ourselves, leading to a distorted self-image. In this podcast, Gen Jigme explores how meditation can help us quiet the negative inner voice and cultivate a more positive understanding of ourselves. While we acknowledge our flaws, we also recognize our growth and appreciate the goodness within us. He guides us through various ways of thinking that can help free us from feelings of isolation and foster a healthier, more compassionate self-image. Book reference. How to Transform your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. https://kadampa.org/book/how-to-transform-your-lifeGen Jigme is the Resident Teacher at Bodhisattva Kadampa Meditation Center in Brighton https://meditateinbrighton.com/The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/WANT MORE?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U5J8JlJq2YFind a…

Gen Kelsang Rabten joins Adam on the podcast for a wide ranging discussion of the various stages of meditation from the very first steps to how to reach the highest levels. Insights are shared and explored that will help us access our inner strength and stillness; show us how we can use meditation to diffuse negative thought patterns in our mind and replace them with healthy positive alternatives; and the special techniques advanced meditators use to create the ideal mental environment for deeply effective meditation are revealed. Something for everyone interested in meditation from complete beginners to the most experienced practitioners - enjoy!

In this illuminating episode, Buddhist Meditation Teacher Kadam Rebecca challenges conventional wisdom about work-life balance. Rather than focusing on time management, she reveals how true equilibrium stems from our inner state of mind. Alongside fellow Teacher and host Kadam Adam, they explores how everyday challenges—especially difficult people—can become powerful catalysts for spiritual and personal transformation. They also dive into how developing a light, positive mindset can help us become a powerful force in the world. It’s not our job that defines us—it’s the inner work we do, so learn how keeping a peaceful heart and good intentions can fuel your energy and enthusiasm. Kadam Rebecca is the Resident Teacher at Tushita Kadampa Buddhist Center, Thousand Oaks, California. https://www.meditateinwestlake.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ 00:00…

In this episode, Kadam Adam is with Buddhist nun Gen Demo for a thought-provoking discussion on the true nature of compassion. Together, they explore how genuine compassion isn’t about feeling sorry for ourselves or others, but rather a mindset that protects and uplifts us, helping us to navigate life with clarity and kindness. They look at the idea that compassion, when understood correctly, empowers rather than burdens us, bringing emotional resilience and peace. Throughout the conversation, Gen Demo shares insightful stories from everyday life that beautifully illustrate how compassion can be a transformative force in our relationships and daily happiness. Book reference The New Eight steps to Happiness by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso https://kadampa.org/book/eight-steps-to-happiness00:00 Introduction & Misconceptions of CompassionExploring common misunderstandings about compassion leading to overwhelm or depression.02:13 Compassion as Transformative PowerBuddhist perspective on compassion: A wish for freedom…

In this episode, we hear the inspiring journey of Gen Lingpur, a Buddhist nun whose life took an unexpected turn after a routine medical check-up. For years, she thrived in her career and enjoyed a fulfilling life. But everything changed when she was diagnosed with cancer. Faced with fear and uncertainty, she began searching for deeper answers to make sense of her situation.It was during this time of searching that Gen Lingpur discovered Kadampa Buddhism. The teachings offered the wisdom she had been looking for—giving her a profound understanding of suffering, impermanence, and the true nature of life. As she began to embrace these teachings, she found a peace that helped her face her diagnosis with newfound peace and clarity.Over time, her journey of healing became more than just about surviving illness—it led her to find a deeper meaning, happiness and joy in life.00:00 - Introduction & Setting the ContextWelcome and introduction to Gen Lingpur's story of hope and inspiration through adversity.00:10 -…

Entrepreneur, Author, and Meditation Practitioner Len Foley shares invaluable insights into how to succeed in work and relationships using meditation as a powerful tool. An Abridged version of this conversation is available in video format on Youtube 0:00 - Introduction Host welcomes Len and introduces the topic of success, meditation, and balancing a busy life. 0:13 - Len's Background Len shares his journey as a business owner, author, and meditation/Buddhism teacher. 0:57 - The Search for Meaning Len reflects on his early struggles, the pursuit of financial success, and the realization that money alone couldn’t fill a deeper void. 2:29 - Failed Ventures & Awakening The story of Len’s hot air balloon business failure and his pivotal introduction to Buddhism and meditation. 3:47 - Modern Buddhism & Integrating Practice How Len learned to weave spiritual practice into daily life without abandoning ambition. 6:03 - Balancing Business and Spirituality Len discusses writing, shifting priorities, and finding…

In this episode, host Agnes sits down with Kelsang Sama, a Buddhist nun, to delve into the deeper concepts of freedom and personal transformation. Together, they explore the difference between cutting ties with the external world and cultivating true inner freedom. While society often emphasizes the importance of shedding external constraints—such as material possessions, relationships, or status—Kelsang Sama emphasizes that genuine freedom lies in mastering one’s inner world and breaking free from self-imposed mental limitations. Her story is one of self-discovery, where the external world’s expectations were set aside in favor of exploring deeper, more authentic truths about herself and the nature of existence. Throughout the episode, Agnes and Kelsang Sama discuss the transformative power of meditation, mindfulness, and the Buddhist teachings that helped her release attachment to external validation and find a more lasting sense of peace. This conversation offers listeners an inspiring perspective on how…

In this episode, we sit down with Gen Thekchen, a Buddhist monk who was invited to teach meditation to prisoners in Canada. He shares his remarkable journey of teaching controlling the mind behind bars, revealing how the inmates’ surprising resilience and unwavering determination to master their minds in such a tough environment inspired him. Tune in as Gen Thekchen reflects on the profound lessons he learned from the very people society often overlooks. Book references How to Transform Your Life ~ https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl The New Eight Steps to Happiness ~ https://tharpa.com/uk/the-new-eight-steps-to-happiness Gen Thekchen is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Ottawa https://meditateinottawa.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U5J8JlJq2Y Find a meditation center near…

Gen Gomlam returns to the podcast for a deeply personal and moving conversation about how to heal and find peace after personal tragedy, addressing the feelings of grief, guilt, anger and shame that often arise in the aftermath and how to work through them and find healing. ** Trigger warning: this episode includes discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. Your discretion is advised. ** *** Book references: How to Solve Our Human Problems Joyful Path of Good Fortune Living Meaningfully Dying Joyfully Gen Gomlam is the Resident Teacher in Kadampa Meditation Center Florida https://meditationinsarasota.org/. The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide: https://kadampa.org WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast…

In this special episode, guest host Buddhist monk Gen Kelsang Rabten is in conversation with astrophysicist and lay Buddhist teacher Kadam Peter Kurczynski. Their wide ranging discussion touches on the common points between science and spirituality - for example, how discoveries in quantum physics correlate to profound Buddhist teachings on the nature of reality - but also how meditation can open us to experiences completely beyond the reach of the physical sciences. Kadam Peter has an extensive background in science as a post doctorate student, researcher and university teacher and currently works as the chief scientific officer for NASA’s cosmic origins program. In parallel to this life in science he has trained in meditation for 30 years and taught Buddhism extensively. He currently teaches classes for Kadampa Meditation Centre Washington DC. Kadampa Meditation Centre Washington DC's website is: https://meditation-dc.org/ You can watch videos of Peter explaining light from the first stars and the stars…

Happy New Year Everyone! While we continue our break from our usual conversation episodes, please enjoy Kadam Adam briefly explaining and then guiding a meditation on how our life is precious, rare and meaningful. This beautiful contemplation energizes us and inspires us to seize the very essence of each day - an excellent way to start the new year. Full epsiodes resume next week.

While we take a brief break over the festive season, please enjoy this bonus episode: a beautiful guided meditation on love and kindness called equalizing self with others. Full conversation episodes will resume in mid January, but check in again next week for another guided meditation.

We live in a world that constantly tells us we need to do more, be more, and achieve more. We set insanely high standards for ourselves, pushing to be successful in every area of life—yet, even when we reach those goals, we're left feeling like it’s still not enough. The truth is, we’re never truly satisfied. We’re always chasing the next milestone, believing we have to be better to be happy. But this constant pressure, this endless pursuit of perfection, is rooted in a disproportionate sense of self-importance. It’s a mindset that makes true fulfillment nearly impossible. In today’s episode, we dive into the power of accepting failure and embracing success—how both can be stepping stones for growth, learning, and ultimately, happiness. Join us as we explore how to let go of the pressure, enjoy the wins, and learn from the setbacks, creating a more balanced and fulfilling life. Book references How to Transform Your Life: https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl Gen Lekma is the Resident Teacher…

In this episode, guest host Agnes Bednarczyk is joined by Buddhist monk Gen Doryning to explore the deep sense of searching many young people feel in today's world. Surrounded by uncertainty and overwhelmed by modern challenges, many struggle to find meaning and direction through traditional paths. When asked where one can look for purpose, Gen Doryning offers gentle yet powerful guidance, suggesting simple, transformative changes that anyone can make to cultivate a sense of direction and a deep, lasting purpose each day. His inspiring words remind us that small steps can lead to profound shifts, helping us rediscover our true path in life. 0:00 Intro 00:25 Social media can keep us chained in meaningless activities 03:39 Looking for a solution : The trap of not being gentle with ourself 05:46 Be your own friend, be your own guide, be your own teacher 09:04 Contribution : Love is the most powerful healing 11:15 Create a vision for ourself 15:01 Protect ourself from self-sabotage 16:51 Failure increases our…

Meditation is a popular method to achieve a calm, peaceful state of mind. In this podcast, International meditation teacher, Kadam Morten Clausen, explains how meditation is so much more than just breathing meditation and how you can begin to find answers to the big questions in your life. He explains how Buddha taught meditation as a way to achieve your true potential and life purpose. He explains how to use meditation to increase your inner wisdom and break free from limiting ways of looking at yourself and the world. An excellent discussion revealing how to go deeper in meditation and gain insight into how it can help you to transform your life. 0:00:00 Intro 0:00:50 What exactly is meditation, and what is it's real purpose 0:06:39 Improve your meditation to bring you a deep sense of inner peace 0:13:07 How to stop running and understand why you aren't happy 0:19:34 Identifying yourself with your true nature, not negativity and limitations 0:30:02 How to discover your sense of purpose 0:36:42 Change…

In this Podcast Gen Demo, a Buddhist nun who is dealing with the chronic disease of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), explains how she is learning to let go of worry and accept her illness. Worrying makes everything worse and has a big effect on health. Gen Demo emphasizes how debilitating worry is in her life and how important it is to relax into the uncertainty of her condition and the uncertainty of the future. Worrying makes everything worse and has a big effect on health. She is learning to be gentle and tries to make the most of all situations she meets. An especially inspiring podcast to uplift and help everyone who is dealing with any difficulties in their life. 00:00:00 Intro 00:29 Being diagnosed with MS & spiritual advice from her teacher 01:26 The impact of worry on our health 06:04 The importance of preventing worry. 09:59 Thoughts that cause peace during a painful procedure. 18:28 Realizing that even if my body isn't ok, I'll be ok 23:47 What the sickness has taught me 28:58 Coming to terms with…

In this episode, Kadam Adam and Buddhist monk Gen Doryning discuss how conflict can become a pivotal time for achieving real success. They both share relatable stories of conflict that helped them to change their reactions and eventually to transform difficult relationships into ones that made them better people. Gen Doryning explains how easy it is for conflict to make us blind to the other person, only seeing them through our own painful feelings. They discuss how having the confidence to view difficult people in a different light, not only makes it possible to change the situation but also has a very positive impact on our lives. For anyone struggling with conflict in any situation, this podcast will inspire you to deal with it better and come out of it a better person. 00:00 Intro 00:21 A story of conflict 07:03 Change your mind and reality changes 11:43 Conflict makes us blind 15:20 Controlling one's feelings to resolve problems 18:10 Be strong in conflict 21:35 Difficulties transform us 31:23 Knowing…

Anxiety is a modern-day epidemic. In this podcast, Buddhist monk, Gen Kelsang Rabten, uses his own experience of anxiety to explain how to deal with this debilitating habit of mind by applying specific, powerful meditation techniques. He describes how anxious thoughts are tricks our mind plays on us and how, by beginning to first identify these thoughts and not believe them, we can dial the intensity of our anxiety right back. He explains one fascinating meditation that Buddha explained as being the best meditation to combat anxiety - and it is not what you would expect! A fascinating and in depth look at how we can transform the power of our mind from being one that harms, to one that helps us to become a powerful, fearless person. 00:00:00 Intro 00:00:15 Anxiety is uncontrolled fear 00:06:07 Letting go of anxious-inducing thoughts 00:09:47 An exercise to remove the fear from anxiety. 00:24:32 The relief of letting go of the fear of failure 00:30:02 The best meditation for dealing with anxiety according to…

In this podcast, Miri (Mirja Renner) discusses how to transform chronic pain. Dealing with chronic pain herself Miri explains an extraordinary and ancient meditation practice that has helped her deal with relentless pain. She has been able to use this practice to not shut down, and become isolated in her illness but has been able instead to feel connected to others and at the same time reduce her own physical and mental suffering. A very powerful conversation giving much hope and solace to anyone who is struggling with chronic illness to see a way forward to a rich and meaningful life. 00:00 Intro 01:08 Adjusting to chronic illness & pain by transforming it with meditation 04:53 Using meditation to help accept patiently 06:52 Stop rejecting sickness and practice being relaxed & peaceful 10:52 How to be peaceful in the face of pain 14:01 Ways to stop focusing on pain and open your heart to others 20:49 Making your sickness meaningful - becoming resilient 22:55 Compassion enables you to support others despite…

In this podcast Gen Menla, a Buddhist monk who has come from becoming a caregiver to his Mother shares what he has learnt from this. He discusses how being a full-time caregiver can be hard, but also a tremendous journey of learning and personal development. Looking at the importance of taking care of yourself, the caregiver, he explains four simple things his teacher recommends for everyone to ensure they can continue to have the energy to be of benefit to others without burnout. For those who have found themselves experiencing frustration, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, this is an insightful podcast to help re-evaluate the importance of self-care for the care-giver. 00:00 Intro 00:16 Moving from son to son and caregiver 03:08 How caregiving helps to become closer to who you care for 07:52 Letting go of our roles and releasing the control 14:29 Accept you aren't perfect when times are hard 22:43 Finding and not letting go of your love 27:32 Don't resent your loved one 39:03 4 simple things to care for…

In today's episode, Gen Gomlam delves into the profound and often uncharted territory of death and dying. Having worked as a Nurse for over 30 years she has experience of helping others in the final stages of life, and more recently faced up to the possibility of her own death. As a Buddhist nun she shares insights into what actually happens when we die and how that can affect our life in a positive way. In a society that frequently shies away from discussions about mortality, it is refreshing to bring these essential conversations to the forefront. 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Exploring Hospice Nursing in Rural New Mexico: Challenges and Rewards 04:00 What Really Happens When We Die? Understanding the death process 07:42 The Nature of Consciousness: What Is the Mind? 12:17 Healing Through Compassion: Overcoming Pain and Suffering 18:38 Unlocking the Power of the Mind: Your Best Protector Against Adversity 22:25 Preparing for the Inevitable: A Guide to Acceptance and Peace at Death 35:45 Discovering the…