The Road Home with Ethan Nichtern

Ep. 181 - You Must Be Somebody Before You Can Be Nobody with Noel Coakley Aug 03, 2026

On the latest episode of The Road Home podcast, Ethan was joined by friend Noel Coakley. A brilliant and kind psychotherapist and Dharma teacher, Noel has a style as a spiritual thinker and teacher all his own. They discussed his journey into working with the mind, his interest in relational mindfulness and psychology, how The Beastie Boys got him into the Dharma, and what it's like to teach Buddhist meditation at a Bluegrass festival. Ethan also tried to rope Noel into Ethan's controversial theory that Siddhartha Gautama demonstrated the path of awakening for an individual with an avoidant attachment style. Finally, we discussed Noel's teaching work and his new book, Wake Up Sleepy Buddha. (Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.)

Noel Coakley has more than thirty years of experience as a meditation practitioner and dharma teacher, primarily within the Yungdrung Bön and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. For the past fourteen years, he has also worked as a licensed psychotherapist, integrating contemplative practice with contemporary Western psychology. His work focuses on making authentic Buddhist teachings approachable without diminishing their depth, helping people find a clear and welcoming path beyond introductory mindfulness. Through meditation retreats, classes, clinical work, and now his book Wake Up Sleepy Buddha, Noel bridges traditional Buddhist wisdom with modern life through direct experience, practical application, and plainspoken language.

Learn more at: www.wakeupsleepybuddha.com/about

(Episode available wherever you get your "pods," Apple, Ethan's Website, Substack and every other pod place).

(Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.)

Show Notes and More cool resources:

The quote which titles this podcast is from an interview between Wes Nisker and Psychologist Jack Engler.

Check out our sponsor platform, A Mindful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for our Fall retreat at the Garrison Institute at this link. Sign up for the August online visualization meditation workshop here .

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in Metta meditation toward yourself. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, Substack and every other pod place).

Ep. 180 - What's Up With The Dudes? with Dr. Chris Willard Jul 07, 2026

Recently I was talking to my friend Dr. Chris Willard, and he mentioned a desire to have a conversation about the effects of patriarchy on men, and especially younger men, from both a psychological and spiritual perspective. Like myself, Chris is a progressive Buddhist dad, and like me, he cares about helping people develop a more emotionally attuned approach to life. Chris has a particular clinical focus on working with younger people, including younger boys and men. What followed was a wide-ranging (and only slightly rambling, but hey, it's a podcast!) conversation that explored the current (troubled) state of masculinity from a spiritual, psychological, scientific, cultural and political perspective.

Dr. Christopher Willard, (Psy. D.) is a clinical psychologist, author and consultant based in Massachusetts. He has spoken in forty countries, and has presented at two TEDx events. He is the author of twenty books, including Alphabreaths, Growing Up Mindful, Feelings are Like Farts, and The Neuroscience of Negotiation. His thoughts on mental health have been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, mindful.org, cnn.com, and elsewhere. He teaches at Harvard Medical School.

Subscribe now

(Episode available wherever you get your "pods," Apple, Ethan's Website, Substack and every other pod place).

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Show Notes and More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A Mindful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for our Fall retreat at the Garrison Institute at this link. Sign up for the August visualization meditation workshop here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in Metta meditation toward yourself. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Subscribe now

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Ep. 179 - The Power of Women Spiritual Teachers with Erica Bassani Jun 22, 2026

After a brief memorial to the late Tenzin Robert Thurman, Ethan welcomes author and seeker Erica Bassani to discuss her new book, Women in Love with the Divine. Erica's book explores what it means to be a woman committed to a relationship with the sacred in today's world. On a quest to answer this question for herself, Erica Bassani shares stories from her encounters with a dozen women spiritual teachers from Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, Christian, Muslim, Jewish, and Nondual traditions. They discuss her own spiritual journey, beginning with the study of the earliest Buddhist teachings, and explore her encounters and interviews with women wisdom holders from a wide variety of traditions.

Erica Bassani is a writer based in Italy, and the author of the recently released Women in Love with the Divine. A graduate of the Academy of Storytelling in Turin, she spent a year living in a Theravadan Buddhist monastery at the age of 23. Since then, she has turned to female spiritual teachers from diverse traditions to help her navigate her inner journey. She created the Women Awakening Project—an initiative that highlights the wisdom of female spiritual role models and explores spiritual practice through the lens of women's experiences—to share their wisdom and create a bridge between generations of seekers. Bassani is also the Italian translator of The Four Noble Truths of Love by Susan Piver.

Subscribe now

(Episode available here now, or wherever you get your "pods," Apple, Ethan's Website, and every other pod place after 11am ET on Wednesday May 27th).

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Show Notes and More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A Mindful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for our Fall retreat at the Garrison Institute at this link. Sign up for the August visualization meditation workshop here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in Metta meditation toward yourself. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Subscribe now

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Ep. 178 - What Acceptance Means (and What It Doesn't) Jun 09, 2026

In this solo episode, Ethan takes on the practice of "acceptance." He gets into the nitty gritty of how frequently we spiritual folks misinterpret the meaning of acceptance, turning it into an unhealthy bypass of what we're actually experiencing. By doing so, we miss the transformative (and not at all passive!) possibilities of what practicing acceptance can truly do for ourselves and others. He offers a three-step practice for working with acceptance, and applies this to practicing acceptance of both painful and pleasant circumstances. Along the way, he discusses the tantric concept of "one taste" and analyzes why we get caught up saying "someone pinch me" when good things happen to us.

(Episode available here now, or wherever you get your "pods," Apple, Ethan's Website, and every other pod place after 12pm ET on Tues June 9th).

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Show Notes and More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for our Fall retreat at the Garrison Institute at this link. Sign up for the August Daylong Retreat on Visualization Meditation at this link.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in Metta meditation toward yourself. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

Ep. 177 - Love is Messy: The Dharma of Relationships with Devon and Nico Hase May 27, 2026

Ethan welcomes teachers and authors devon and nico hase to discuss their new book, This Messy, Gorgeous Love: A Buddhist Guide to Lasting Partnership. Devon and nico are a rare pair in the Dharma world. Each from a varied background and students of multiple traditions of wisdom, they bring two varied and brilliantly contemporary approaches to their practice and teaching. In this flowing conversation, they discuss with Ethan some of the secrets of lasting intimacy, keys to fighting well and three styles of engagement with conflict, attachment theory in relationship to the spiritual path, and the postmodern dilemma of studying deeply in multiple traditions of wisdom without being superficial or distractable about one's approach to the path. Definitely worth a listen!

devon + nico hase serve as guiding teachers of the online dharma community Refuge of Belonging. They teach at the Insight Meditation Society, Spirit Rock, and other centers, offer online and in-person retreats, and speak with students in one-on-one sessions. They are the co-authors of How Not to Be a Hot Mess and This Messy, Gorgeous Love: A Buddhist Guide to Lasting Partnership (2026). Find out more at www.devonandnicohase.com

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Show Notes and More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for our Fall retreat at the Garrison Institute at this link.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in Metta meditation toward yourself. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Ep. 176 - Loving an Addict and Making Friends with Grief with Bryan Welch May 18, 2026

Ethan welcomes author, meditator, entrepreneur and organic farmer Bryan Welch for a heart-opening conversation about grief, loss, and loving someone who can't be saved. In his gripping new memoir, The Gift of a Broken Heart, Bryan movingly recounts his own journey through deep grief at the loss of his 25-year-old son to addiction. The book describes, in searing detail, the pain of parents grappling with an adult child's mental illness and, finally, his death in the throes of the disease. As Bryan begins to recover from devastating parental grief, he becomes aware that his new vulnerability gives him unexpected feelings of warmth, kinship and compassion toward his fellow human beings. Check out this insightful and inspiring conversation wherever you get your podcasts.

Bryan's substack is here. His book can be ordered here.

(episode available here now, or wherever you get your "pods," Apple, Ethan's Website, etc after 3pm ET on Wednesday April 29th).

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Show Notes and More cool resources: The piece Ethan wrote about losing his childhood friend to addiction is here.

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for Ethans May 2nd Windhorse Meditation workshop at this link.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in Metta meditation toward yourself. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Ep. 175 - Crucial Questions: What Is The Mind, Anyway? Musings on the relationship between Consciousness and Matter. May 11, 2026

Hey friends, in this solo episode of The Road Home, I continue my occasional foray into some of the more interesting and important questions that come up while we study and practice with Buddhist themes, questions that don't always get directly addressed. So what do we even mean when we say "The Mind?" Seems to be a pretty important question if one of the keys to becoming a more grounded and attuned—and dare I say happy—person is to practice something called MINDfulness. In this episode I look into some of the various definitions of mind, how mind relates to the world and to other people in it, the relationship between mind and matter, and what working with this hard-to-define space of self-reflective awareness has to do with your wellbeing, anyway. Enjoy, and stay tuned for a few awesome interviews I've done recently in the coming weeks!

The Road Home is available here now, or wherever you get your "pods," Apple, Ethan's Website, etc after 3pm ET on Mon, May 11).

You can order signed copies of Ethan's books sent to you directly from his website as well.

Check out all the latest free events and offerings from our sponsor A Mindful World as well!

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

If you're looking for a great in-person retreat, check out our annual Fall retreat at the Garrison Institute Sep 30 - Oct 5.

More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for a free discussion on why you might want to consider attending a meditation retreat this year on June 11th!

Ep. 174 - Mindfulness in Hell and Making A Dharma Mix Tape with Oneika Mays Apr 29, 2026

Ethan welcomes yoga/mindfulness teacher Oneika Mays— the author of the great new book Sit With Me— for a fascinating conversation on her personal path through mindfulness, yoga, and wellness practices. The conversation also focuses on Oneika's crucial and transformative work bringing these practices into the prison-industrial complex as she became the first full time mindfulness coach at Rikers Island Correctional Facility and her newly released book, which centers on these experiences. Ethan and Oneika discuss the meaning of metta and restorative practices in an unjust hell realm solely focused on punishment. Weaving serious conversation with playfulness, they also discuss their love for the spiritual music of Stevie Wonder, and they ponder whether The Cure could qualify as "Goth Bodhicitta."

Oneika Mays is a yoga and meditation teacher and storyteller who leads with joy, passion, and wisdom. With deep roots and knowledge in Buddhist and yogic teachings, Oneika delivers practical application and authentic connection through her teaching. Oneika has been practicing yoga for more than 20 years, and teaching yoga and meditation for more than a decade. She has used her knowledge to support social justice nonprofits and historically excluded communities. She served as the Mindfulness Coach at Rikers Island Correctional Facility for 4 years, and volunteered there for over a decade total. She teaches at Yoga International, Embodied Philosophy, New York Insight and leads retreats at Kripalu. Oneika's literary debut, Sit With Me: A No-BS Journey to Mindfulness and Meditation(HarperOne, March 2026) explores metta practice as a tool for personal and collective liberation. Connect with her at www.oneikamays.com.

Oneika's substack is here.

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for Ethans May 2nd Windhorse Meditation workshop at this link.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in Metta meditation toward yourself. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

Ep. 173 - Fail Like A Legend: Confidence, Longing, and The Eight Worldly Winds, Revisited Apr 21, 2026

Hey friends, this is the first episode of The Road Home in a bit. Please remember to check out and sign up for the upcoming Windhorse (Confidence) meditation workshop on Saturday May 2nd (1-5pm ET) via A Mindful World. It should be a great mini-retreat with a helpful practice that anyone can use, anytime, anywhere to be brave and show up to all those difficult moments in life.

This week, in a solo talk, Ethan revisits the theme of The Eight Worldly Winds from his last book Confidence (you can always have Ethan send you a signed copy of Confidence or his other books). He specifically hones in on the valid experience of longing for success and fearing failure, and how the practice of confidence involves the willingness to fail repeatedly. Did you know, by the way, that even the great tennis players of all time only win (very) slightly over half the total points they ever play? Embrace your longing before you listen.

The Road Home is available here now, or wherever you get your "pods," Apple, Ethan's Website, etc after 3pm ET on Tues, April 21).

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

If you're looking for a great in-person retreat, check out our annual Fall retreat at the Garrison Institute Sep 30 - Oct 5.

More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Sign up for Ethan's May 2nd Windhorse Meditation workshop at this link.

Ep. 172 - Invoking The Muse: Dharma Art with Josh Ritter Mar 26, 2026

"Intuition doesn't seem to act aggressively." -Josh Ritter

Ethan welcomes his friend, contemporary folk musician and novelist Josh Ritter for a conversation about creativity, inspiration, spirituality and art-making. They discuss where great ideas come from, how the "protocols" of practice influence both creativity and the spiritual path, and the meaning of relative and ultimate truth found within Josh's song "Truth is a Dimension (Both Invisible and Blinding)" off Josh's most recent album I Believe in You, My Honeydew. They also discuss the mental health of an artist, and how fatherhood can lead you to very mixed opinions of Disney movies.

Josh Ritter is a renowned singer, songwriter, musician, artist and best-selling author. One of today's most thoughtful and prolific voices, he has released twelve studio albums and was named one of the "100 greatest living songwriters" by Paste Magazine. His newest album 'I Believe in You, My Honeydew' is out now. About his music, The Guardian has said: "Ritter's painstakingly simple but crafted songs establish his own identity in a terrain marked out by Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen." Two-plus decades into his celebrated career, Ritter has written music that has transcended generations including luminaries such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Bob Weir covering his songs.

Josh's substack is here.

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your support. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Check out the free roundtable discussion on Mindfulness and Organizational Leadership at this link. Sign up for Ethans May 2nd Windhorse Meditation workshop at this link.

Show Notes:

Check out Josh's recent interview with NPR's World Cafe mentioned in the podcast at this link.

Ep. 171 - How To Make Use of Your Broken Heart Mar 18, 2026

Sometimes life breaks your heart. Right now, the world is breaking most of our hearts. And if it isn't breaking your heart, you're not paying attention. But what does a broken heart have to do with the awakened state of mind? In this solo episode of The Road Home podcast, Ethan examine the two main aspects of our consciousness - thinking mind and feeling mind. Feeling mind might be better understood as our "Awakened Heart,"which is a not-quite-literal translation of the term Bodhicitta. Most of the time, when life or the world exposes our heart fully, we desperately want to turn away from that tenderness. Because a vulnerable heart hurts, it brings up all the specific ways we feel wounded by our past, and also by the world "out there." But our great power, and our genuine awakening, lies in turning toward Bodhicitta, or what Pema Chodron calls the "soft spot." Let's get into "soft spot," shall we? There's really no other choice in the end. Join Ethan for a very "heartfelt" episode of The Road Home this week.

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed the obstacle of resistance to meditation practice, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

More cool resources:

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course from Ethan on Metta (lovingkindness) meditation is now available at this link. Check out the free roundtable discussion on Mindfulness and Organizational Leadership at this link. Sign up for Ethans May 2nd Windhorse Meditation workshop at this link.

Ep. 170 - Worldly Enlightenment and The Path of The "Householder" with Lou Sharma Mar 10, 2026

In classic Buddhism, there is often a meaningful emphasis on going very deep into the spiritual life, often through leaving the world behind for long periods of time and even becoming a lifelong yogi or monk. Is this the only way to move toward full awakening? There is often a lesser emphasis on a different path to awakening, the so-called "householder"— the student of mindfulness and awakening who doesn't want to—or simply can't— leave this world behind, but wants to turn their practice directly toward all aspects of their life in a contemporary setting.

Ethan welcomes back Lou Sharma, a meditation teacher (and partner in the new A Mindful World community) for a open discussion of whether or not the path of the householder can also lead to awakening. This is a conversation for anyone who wants to engage with relationships, career, creative life, and social justice pursuits with more mindfulness, compassion and wisdom amidst all the hustle, bustle and chaos of life in the thick of the modern world.

Lou Sharma is a mindfulness meditation teacher based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has practiced meditation for over 15 years, as part of her ongoing studies of Buddhism within Tibetan Buddhist traditions, including the Magyu lineage of Lama Tsultrim Allione.

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Check out our sponsor platform, A M indful World! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link. Check out the free roundtable discussion on Mindfulness and Organizational Leadership at this link. Sign up for the May 2nd Windhorse Meditation workshop at this link.

Ep. 169 - On Mindful Democracy with Jeremy David Engels Feb 26, 2026

What's wrong with democracy these days? Can it be rescued? Can it be made more mindful? Can we work together to build something better? What's the role of compassion in building community? What's the role of conflict in building community? Why do yoga and mindfulness communities often seem so averse to taking a stand and diving into different political or communal issues head on? Why does our world treat politics as some sort of childish, dirty game, like reality tv, instead of sacred duty? For the 250th anniversary of 1776, can somebody write a formal Declaration of INTERdependence? Professor, teacher and author Jeremy David Engels—author of the brand new book A Mindful Democracy—just wrote one, and Ethan welcomed him to The Road Home podcast to discuss it, and more.

Jeremy David Engels, Ph.D., is the author of six books, including the new On Mindful Democracy: A Declaration of Interdependence to Mend a Fractured World (Parallax, 2026), and the creator of the Zen and the Art of Democracy Substack. He is the Liberal Arts Endowed Professor of Communication and Ethics at Penn State University, co-founder of Yoga Lab, and a longtime mindfulness and yoga teacher. His work reimagines democracy as a communal practice rooted in care, deliberation, and shared responsibility, emphasizing mindfulness as a core civic skill. His essays have appeared in the Washington Post, Yoga Journal, Yoga Magazine, and The Conversation.

Last year, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Check out our sponsor platform, A Mindful World! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Note: the name of the book mentioned by Ethan authored by Thich Nhat Hanh where Thay explored the morality of the bombing of Hiroshima using specific Buddhist questions is Good Citizens.

Ep. 168 - How (and When) Do We Practice Compassion For Those Who Cause Harm? Feb 16, 2026

Ethan tackles an age-old dharma question: how do we generate compassion for those who do harmful things? Should we even try, or does that make things worse? In the age of ICE lawlessness, totalitarian governments, and coming to terms with toxic relationships of all kinds, this question intensifies. This conversation often feels misunderstood. Whether the perpetrator is a dictator, a difficult ex, or a manipulative boss—or whether the harm is something we ourselves have caused—the question of building compassion and opening the bodhisattva's heart often delivers more confusion than clarity. Using a memory of hearing a college lecture by the long-imprisoned Tibetan monk Palden Gyatso, Ethan offers a simple (but never easy) three-step model of how to go about the difficult process of acknowledging and transforming the negative karma related to harmful actions.

In 2025, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can now order personally signed copies of Ethan's books at his website.

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Check out our sponsor platform, A Mindful World! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Ep. 167 - The Fire Inside: A Conversation with Dr. Rima Vesely-Flad Feb 05, 2026

Ethan talks to author, scholar and teacher Dr. Rima Vesely-Flad about her insightful new book The Fire Inside: The Dharma of James Baldwin and Audre Lorde. Mixing scholarship, memoir, and a deep reverence for the spiritual insights of two of the greatest writers and thinkers of the 20th century, Dr. Vesely-Flad's newest work approaches Buddhist teachings from an angle that is deeply human, literary, and personal. How did these two great authors touch on such dharmic topics as the truth of suffering, relative and ultimate reality, and much more? Fans of literature and Buddhism will enjoy this conversation and new book deeply. This conversation belongs to one of Ethan's favorite categories: "Things you didn't know were Buddhist."

In 2025, with your subscriptions to The Road Home, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Rima Vesely-Flad, PhD, is the author of Black Buddhists and the Black Radical Tradition: The Practice of Stillness in the Movement for Liberation (NYU Press, 2022) and Racial Purity and Dangerous Bodies: Moral Pollution, Black Lives, and the Struggle for Justice (Fortress Press, 2017). She is the founder of the Initiative for Black Buddhist Studies and the recipient of grants from the Fetzer Institute, the Henry J. Luce Foundation, the Fredrick P. Lenz Foundation, the Crossroads Program, and the US Department of State Fulbright program. You can follow her work at www.blackbuddhiststudies.org.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Free RAIN Meditation Workshop on February 12th via A Mindful World!

A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor A Mindful World!

Ep. 166 - Kindness, Innocence, And Emotional Awareness: A Conversation with Sharon Salzberg Jan 27, 2026

What is the relationship between Metta (lovingkindness practice) and developing, or rediscovering, a childlike innocence? How can Buddhist meditation help both kids and adults with emotional regulation and resilience? Is there anything about the way kids meet thoughts and emotions that we grown-ups can learn from? And, as Ethan wonders, are all children Democratic Socialists? Ethan welcomes dear mentor and friend Sharon Salzberg—now author of a children's book called Kind Karl (and it's an excellent one)—for a discussion about kindness, mindfulness, and rediscovering our innocence.

Sharon Salzberg is one of America's leading spiritual teachers and authors. A practitioner of Buddhist meditation for over fifty years, she is a co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society.

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! In 2025, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program starts tomorrow! Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 165 - Against The Stream: Karma, Mindfulness, and The Algorithms We (Don't Have To) Live By Jan 19, 2026

Ethan continues recent conversations on tech, mindfulness and dharma to examine how much of our karma (ie "habit energy" according to the late master Thich Nhat Hanh) is determined by pre-chosen and manipulative algorithms. How can we use our mindfulness practice to understand the internal and external forces influencing our patterns of behavior, and use our dharma practice to create more gaps of genuine awareness, gaps in which our intention and agency create a space for right action, or at least not doing exactly what the seemingly almighty algorithm wants us to do?

In 2025, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber here.

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program—which begins next Tuesday—at this link!

Find out about the Advanced Buddhist Studies program—which begins next Wednesday—at this link!

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 164 - What is Engaged Buddhism? A Conversation with Roshi Joan Halifax Jan 10, 2026

At a recent event in support of Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies program on January 6th, Ethan was joined by the great Roshi Joan Halifax, to discuss the practice, history and theory of Engaged Buddhism. Why is this integrated approach to the dharma so crucial now? Ethan begins with an impassioned plea after the ICE murder of the Renee Good in Minneapolis to come together as sangha and practice engaged dharma this year. And every time the thought arises "I could do something but it won't really make any difference," please label that thought thinking.

Roshi Joan Halifax is Founder, Abbot, and Head Teacher of Upaya, a center which focused on Engaged Buddhism in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her vision for the Zen Center embraces comprehensive Buddhist studies, meditation, service, dharma art, and environmental action as integrated paths cultivating peace and interconnectedness. She is also the author of multiple books including Standing at The Edge and Being With Dying.

In 2025, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber below

Paid subscribers to The Road Home will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 163 - The Astrology of 2026: Revolutionary Momentum, Breakthrough and Integration with Juliana McCarthy Dec 26, 2025

Ethan welcomes back bestselling author and Buddhist Astrologer Juliana McCarthy (Ethereal Culture, The Stars Within You) to dive headfirst into a discussion of the momentous year ahead. They break the discussion into four areas: spiritual practice, creative practice, technology and politics. Juliana predicts big personal and collective moments ahead in February, April and especially in July 2026, including a massive revolutionary placement of planets that coincides directly with July 4th, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the American Declaration of Independence (Which Ethan wishes was called the Declaration of Interdependence!). Juliana also talks about why "thick karma" is not a problem. These conversations are always fun, and this one might have been the most impactful of them all. Enjoy!

In 2025, with your subscriptions, we were able to release more episodes than any previous year. This was only possible with your subscriptions. Please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Check out about upcoming live events like a New Year's Eve Intention-Settingworkshop and a live talk with Ethan and Roshi Joan Halifax January 6th!

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 162 - One Samsara After Another: An End To Gun Violence and The First Precept Dec 16, 2025

After a heavy weekend on Earth, Ethan discusses violence and gun violence via the mass shootings at his alma mater of Brown University and the Jewish community in Sydney at Bondi Beach, along side the movie One Battle After Another and the murders of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer. Ethan contemplates the first precept (to refrain from killing) as both a personal and a political practice. He also argues that the American love of "free speech" and our widespread addiction to guns are directly at odds with each other, and as a society, we must either choose guns or speech and can't have both. How can our mindfulness practice lead us toward an actual end to violence? Can it? Or will it just be "one samsara after another?"

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out about upcoming live events like a New Year's Eve Intention-Setting workshop and a live talk with Ethan and Roshi Joan Halifax January 6th! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 161 - Cover The World In Leather - Seeking Stability with Dan Harris Dec 11, 2025

Ethan welcomes Dan Harris, one of the leading voices in the mindfulness movement, for a live (and lively) conversation about the quest for stability in an unstable world, and to present the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies Program. When Ethan mentioned a classic quote from the Indian master Shantideva about "covering the world in leather," Dan responded with one of his slightly irreverent and not-safe-for-the-monastery quips. It was a great conversation. Check it out!

A former ABC news anchor, Dan Harris is the bestselling author of 10% Happier and Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics. He hosts the 10% Happier Podcast. You can follow his work and subscribe to his substack at DanHarris.com .

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out about upcoming live events like a New Year's Eve Intention-Setting workshop and a live talk with Ethan and Roshi Joan Halifax January 6th! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 160 - The Cosmic Joke: Developing A Sense of Humor Along The Path Dec 04, 2025

The path of awakening is often treated as serious business for serious people. This approach can make us rigid about our experience of reality, when what we want to develop is greater flexibility, appreciation, and openness to ouselves and others. For that, we need the path to include a great sense of humor. So when is the spiritual path funny? When is humor an obstacle or a neurotic defense mechanism? How can comedy point us toward Ultimate Truth? In this solo episode, Ethan explores where comedy and humor aid the path, where they might lead us astray, and why you should crack up every once in a while on your meditation seat.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc). Subscribe now

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out about upcoming live events like a live talk with Ethan and Dan Harris December 10, a New Year's Eve Intention-Setting Workshop, and a live talk with Ethan and Roshi Joan Halifax January 6th! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep 159. - Radical Change with Adriana DiFazio Nov 25, 2025

Ethan is joined by old friend and teacher Adriana DiFazio for a wide ranging discussion of the limitations of a Western Buddhism that focuses on individualism, individual liberation, and "secular" practice. They discuss how to create a Dharma that is more focused on intersectionality and systems, along with a truly spiritual approach. Enjoy!

Adriana DiFazio is a Buddhist meditation teacher, scholar, chaplain, and parent whose work explores the intersections of Buddhism, critical theory, and social change. Her teaching emphasizes the dharma as a collective and liberatory practice, grounded in both personal and systemic transformation. She holds an M.Div. in Buddhism from Union Theological Seminary, where she focused on Engaged Buddhist ethics and Marxism. Adriana teaches meditation and Buddhist studies through her online newsletter and community, Radical Change(adrianadifazio.substack.com). Her website is www.adrianadifazio.com

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc). Subscribe now

You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc).

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out about upcoming live events like a live talk with Ethan and Dan Harris December 10, a New Year's Eve Intention-Setting Workshop, and a live talk with Ethan and Roshi Joan Halifax January 6th! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 158 - Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Buddhist Socialism, and Standing (or Sitting) For Something Nov 11, 2025

How did NYC become the epicenter of all the tensions and promise of American society and politics, and do the Buddhist teachings have anything to offer to understanding this political moment? Using the rise of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani in his home city—a city of perpetual immigrants—Ethan explores themes of community engagement, sangha, social democracy and the power of standing up for what you believe in to talk about this chaotic (yet potent) moment on Earth.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on intuition, and Ethan also offered instruction in the RAIN method for working with emotions with self-compassion. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Ethan's Website, etc). Subscribe now

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link! Check out about upcoming free live events like a panel on Mindfulness and Holiday Stress Nov 12, a live talk with Ethan and Dan Harris December 10, and a live talk with Ethan and Roshi Joan Halifax January 6th! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including a free webinar with David Nichtern on the new Advanced Teacher training on November 20. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Subscribe now

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Ep. 157 - How Am I (Really?) Doing: The Power of Accurate Self-Assessment Oct 29, 2025

Drawing on concepts from his latest book, Confidence, Ethan explores how it is that our self-assessment can be so off the mark so frequently, especially when it comes to seeing our progress along a long-term path like meditation, or the deeper journey of spiritual and psychological . Why is it so hard assess our traits, and to see our strengths as well as our stuck places, clearly? How can we overcome our negativity bias and meet the inner critic more skillfully in everyday life. What does it mean to develop clarity when asking ourselves the question: "How am I doing, really?"

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions for a paid subscription. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on the These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link! Check out about upcoming free live events like a panel on Mindfulness and Holiday Stress Nov 12, a live talk with Ethan and Dan Harris December 10, and a live talk with Ethan and Roshi Joan Halifax January 6th! A new free video course on a classic Buddhist contemplation called The Five Remembrances is available at this link.

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including a free webinar with David Nichtern on the new Advanced Teacher training on November 20. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Subscribe now

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Ep. 156 - The Myth of (Conditional) Freedom Oct 21, 2025

Ethan is back with a solo episode to discuss the Buddhist experience of liberation and (moksha) and how we can glimpse an experience it in our awareness and meditation practice. He also discusses the related question of the collapsing American mythology of "freedom." In the discussion, he highlights several categories of freedom, first "conditional" freedom versus "unconditional" freedom. Then he discusses individual, or personal freedom versus "collective" freedom.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on the These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link! Check out about upcoming free live events like a panel on Mindfulness and Holiday Stress Nov 12, a live talk with Ethan and Dan Harris December 10, and a live talk with Ethan and Roshi Joan Halifax January 6th!

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including a free webinar with David Nichtern on the new Advanced Teacher training on November 20. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 155 - What Should a Teacher Say? with Francesca Cervero Sep 22, 2025

Ethan is joined by friend and yoga teacher Francesca Cervero to talk about becoming a teacher as a livelihood, the duty of the teacher when it comes to building community in a post-pandemic world, and how to be clear and open with students about the ethical teachings of Buddhism and yoga in a world of chaos, violence and oppression. Francesca Cervero (she/her) has been a full time yoga and meditation teacher since 2005 and offers private and group yoga classes as well as yoga teacher mentoring and education. She is the host of the podcast "The Mentor Sessions," and you can find out more about her work at FrancescaCervero.com

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on the These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Find out about the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including a free webinar with David Nichtern on why become a meditation teacheron Sep 23rd, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 154 - How Do I Know If I'm Enlightened? Sep 09, 2025

In this episode, Ethan discusses the crucial question of "enlightenment," better translated as "awakening." What does this word mean? What doesn't it mean? How would we know if we were really there? Is awakening a big deal? And most importantly, how can we glimpse it, or notice the glimpses we are already having of our awakening, and build off of those powerful moments with confidence in our development?

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a guided audio meditations are released monthly. Another bonus podcast for paid subscribers discussed a mindful take on the These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Don't forget to sign up for thee upcoming 5 day retreat at the lovely Garrison Institute Sep 29 - Oct 4, 2025 at this link ! And the 2026 Yearlong Buddhist Studies program at this link!

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including a free webinar with David Nichtern on why become a meditation teacheron Sep 2th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Show Notes:

Quote from Chogyam Trungpa is available on the Substack page for this podcast.

Ep. 153 - You Won't Heal Until You Love It : Inside The Neurological Storm with Reggie Hubbard Aug 26, 2025

16 months ago, yoga/meditation/sound teacher Reggie Hubbard had a near-death experience, a major stroke. He visits the podcast to describe the experience of his "neurological storm" and the path of collapse and healing that he's been on ever since, and how it has profoundly affected his views as a practitioner, teacher, and his views of the neurological storm that the United States and the world is currently experiencing. If there's such a thing as a "must-listen" episode of this podcast, this it it.

Reggie Hubbard is a senior political strategist, certified yoga and meditation teacher, and founder of Active Peace Yoga. He bridges the worlds of activism and wellness, helping changemakers cultivate inner peace as a foundation for meaningful civic engagement. His mission is to support activists in finding balance while encouraging the wellness community to become more socially conscious. With a background in global marketing, government relations, and activism, Reggie holds a B.A. in philosophy from Yale and an M.B.A. in international strategy from Vlerick Business School. He turned to yoga in 2014 during a period of deepprofessional adversity, and has since studied with renowned teachers including Faith Hunter, Rod Stryker, Dharma Mittra, and Jack Kornfield. Through Active Peace Yoga, Reggie offers accessible yoga rooted in inclusion and healing, drawing inspiration fromartists like Prince and Jimi Hendrix. His teaching blends movement, meditation, and breathwork with honest conversation and compassion. Following a major stroke, his recovery journey further deepened his commitment to contemplative practice. A passionate advocate for equity in wellness, Reggie advises studios and organizations on diversity and inclusion. He has been featured by Yoga Journal, Kripalu, the Omega Institute, Be Here Now Network, and more. He also supports community programs including Black Boys Om and The Food Group. Reggie currently resides in Maryland.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a special guided meditation on Open Awareness in Everyday Life was released this week. Another bonus podcast discussed a mindful take on the Revolutionary Astrology of Summer 2025 with Juliana McCarthy and Ethan Nichtern. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Don't forget to sign up for thee upcoming 5 day retreat at the lovely Garrison Institute Sep 29 - Oct 4, 2025 at this link !

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including a free webinar with David Nichtern on why become a meditation teacheron Sep 2th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 152 - Crucial Questions: What Is The Bodhisattva Vow? Aug 13, 2025

Ethan discusses three reasons we take vows and make commitments from a Buddhist perspective, and gives special emphasis to The Bodhisattva Vow, where we commit to not only pursue our own path of liberation and awakening, but also vow to work for the benefit of all beings, to the limits of space, until all beings are awake. It is a commitment to the collective liberation of all beings. Of course, this is impossible (at least in our lifetimes), so why would we agree to do it? Using the classic structure of the vow, along with modern commentary, Ethan dissects the reasons we would take on such a commitment. Ethan briefly mentions a much earlier episode of the podcast, where he discusses the first vow along the Buddhist path (The refuge vow). That episode can be found here.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Additional links and show notes are available there. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group happens each week at 8am ET on Thursdays, and a special guided meditation on Open Awareness in Everyday Life was released this week. Another bonus podcast discussed a mindful take on the Revolutionary Astrology of Summer 2025 with Juliana McCarthy and Ethan Nichtern. These are all available to paid subscribers. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Don't forget to sign up for the August 23 "Windhorse Meditation" Online Retreatat t his link and the upcoming 5 day retreat at the lovely Garrison Institute at this link !

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including a free webinar with David Nichtern on why become a meditation teacher on Sep 2th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download at Dharma Moon.

Ep. 151 - Buddhist Geeks, 21st Century Practice, and The Duhkha of Palestine Aug 06, 2025

Ethan welcomes Buddhist Geeks Co-Founder, teacher, and Palestinian-American Dharma teacher Vince Fakhoury Horn. They discuss the rise of "podcast dharma" in the early 21st century, Vince's path to teaching meditation, Vince's experience of his Palestinian heritage, why it's hard to get Dharma teachers to speak out about the genocide in Gaza, The Buddhist practice of Mohsen Mahdawi, and the complex legacy of Chogyam Trungpa and Tibetan refugees in relation to the Palestinian experience.

Vince Fakhoury Horn is part of a new generation bringing dharma, meditation, & mindfulness to life in the 21st century. A computer engineering dropout turned full-time meditator, Vince spent his 20s co-founding the ground-breaking project, Buddhist Geeks, while simultaneously doing a full year, in total, of silent retreat practice. Vince began teaching in 2010 and has since been authorized in both the Pragmatic Dharma lineage of Kenneth Folk, and by Trudy Goodman (InsightLA) & Jack Kornfield of (Spirit Rock Meditation Center) in the Insight Meditation tradition. Since then he has spent thousands of hours supporting individuals, groups, & organizations in incorporating meditation practice into their lives.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group starts up again on July 10th, and a special guided meditation on Open Awareness in Everyday Life was released this week. Another bonus podcast discussed a mindful take on the Revolutionary Astrology of Summer 2025 with Juliana McCarthy and Ethan Nichtern. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Don't forget to sign up for the August 23 "Windhorse Meditation" Online Retreat at this link and the upcoming 5 day retreat at the lovely Garrison Institute at this link !

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including theBody of Meditation Teacher Training program beginning July 10th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 150 - The Virtues of Boredom (The Most Boring Podcast Ever!) Jul 30, 2025

This is the 150th episode of The Road Home Podcast! Yay, Big Deal! But, it's—as always—also a conversation about the Dharma, and the mind, and how to work with your own experience. And your mind, especially during meditation, can be boring. Very boring. So why is boredom such a difficult, yet important—and creative—experience? What do we do about boredom in meditation practice, as well as boredom in daily life? Using a teaching on working with boredom in three stages, along with teachings from earliest Buddhism on the "hindrance" of restlessness, Ethan unpacks the creative power of boredom. It's an incredibly important reframe of this very human experience, but don't worry, it's not that exciting after all. Enjoy!

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group starts up again on July 10th, and a special guided meditation on Open Awarenesswas released this month. Another bonus podcast discussed a mindful take on the Revolutionary Astrology of Summer 2025 with Juliana McCarthy and Ethan Nichtern. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Don't forget to sign up for the August 23 "Windhorse Meditation" Online Retreat at this link and the upcoming 5 day retreat at the lovely Garrison Institute at this link !

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including theBody of Meditation Teacher Training program beginning July 10th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 149 - The Whole World Is Gold To Me: Tantra and Generosity Jul 21, 2025

(This episode of The Road Home is dedicated to the memory of Joanna Macy—founder of the Eco-Dharma and Deep Ecology Movements—who passed this weekend at the age of 96)

On this episode, a follow-up to episode 148, Ethan explores wealth and generosity from a tantric perspective. If you could take the view, for just one moment, that you, your perceptions, and your world were all perfect in being exactly what they were, how would that change your experience of yourself, your resources, and your participation in society? What is generosity ("dana" in the Buddhist languages) from a Tantric perspective? How does tantra change our ability to practice Dana, or "fluid exchange" with our experience? In the second part of a two episode discussion, Ethan looks at an understanding of wealth and generosity in the Vajrayana systems of Buddhist practice, incorporating themes of spacious awareness, teacher Rick Hanson's crucial four-step practice of "Taking in the Good," and the practices of Ratna Jewel, Golden Key and Enriching Presence from the Tantric and Shambhala traditions.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group starts up again on July 10th, and a special guided meditation on Open Awarenesswas released this month. Another bonus podcast discussed a mindful take on the Revolutionary Astrology of Summer 2025 with Juliana McCarthy and Ethan Nichtern. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Don't forget to sign up for the August 23 "Windhorse Meditation" Online Retreat at this link and the upcoming 5 day retreat at the lovely Garrison Institute at this link !

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including theBody of Meditation Teacher Training program beginning July 10th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 148 - No More Billionaires - Wealth, Livelihood and Generosity in the Hinayana and Mahayana Jul 14, 2025

What is generosity ("dana" in the Buddhist languages), and how does it relate to our experience of wealth, our consumption, our labor, and our shared values as a society? How can we work with our craving for always have more like one of those a metal claw machines in a video game arcade, leaving us unable to live in the practice of Dana, or "fluid exchange" with our experience? Similarly, how do we create a society that acknowledges the sacredness of labor and the social benefits of collective generosity? How can we as a society generate wealth without the fixation to hoard billions of dollars? In the first part of a two episode discussion, Ethan looks at an understanding of wealth and generosity in the "Hinayana" and "Mahayana" systems of Buddhist practice, and next week in Episode 149 he will look at a Vajrayana understanding of wealth and generosity through the "Ratna Jewel of Enriching Presence."

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group starts up again on July 10th, and a special guided meditation on Open Awarenesswas released this month. Another bonus podcast discussed a mindful take on the Revolutionary Astrology of Summer 2025 with Juliana McCarthy and Ethan Nichtern. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Don't forget to sign up for the August 23 "Windhorse Meditation" Online Retreatat this link!

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Body of Meditation Teacher Training program beginning July 10th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 147 - Don't Stop Believing - Faith and Awareness in The Six Bardos of Collapse and Rebirth Jun 26, 2025

How we work with our minds in the spaces between collapse and rebirth (those uncomfortable gaps in life as well as the huge "gap" after death) hold the key to creating futures that do not replicate the stuckness and suffering of our past. This is true both personally and collectively. As always, with recent world events in mind, we discuss the six bardos of classic Tibetan Buddhism, as well as the three qualities we need to effectively navigate the space between the death of what was and the birth of what will be.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Thursday Meditation Group starts up again on July 10th, and a special guided meditation on Open Awarenesswas released this month. Another bonus podcast discussed a mindful take on the Revolutionary Astrology of Summer 2025 with Juliana McCarthy and Ethan Nichtern. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Don't forget to sign up for the August 23 "Windhorse Meditation" Online Retreatat this link!

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Body of Meditation Teacher Training program beginning July 10th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 146 - The Dissonance of 2025 Jun 11, 2025

Ethan visits a recurrent conversation he's been having with his students, his friends, and within his own mind: the dissonance between feeling like your personal life and close community are in basically good places, while simultaneously raising your gaze to see the immense suffering and chaos of the world. How can we hold those two and find our compassion and skillful means? Framing thoughts around the massive ICE raids that are tearing families apart, followed by the subsequent mass protests in Los Angeles and across the country, Ethan examines how we can remain grounded in our own beings and work with any guilt we might feel for feeling safer than others right now. How can we stay grounded in ourselves and leverage what is classically called the "Precious Human Birth" to experience a harmonized practice on three levels of showing up: the personal, the interpersonal, and the collective?

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Meditation Group starts up again on May 15th, and a special podcast/meditation on "Intuition" was be released to paid subscribers this month. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training program beginning June 13th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 145 - Always Meditate on Whatever Provokes Resentment May 23, 2025

What is resentment? Why is it so corrosive? How can we work with our resentments? How can we overcome a victim mentality while still protecting ourselves, protecting others, and protecting truth? In this solo episode, Ethan uses a classic Tantric Buddhist contemplative slogan from the Lojong mind training tradition that translates as either "Always meditate on whatever provokes resentment" or "stay close to your resentment." Enjoy the listen!

Ethan's most recent book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds was just awarded a gold medal in the 2025 Nautilus Book Awards. You can visit Ethan's website to order a signed copy. Please allow two weeks from the time of your order for your copy to arrive.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Meditation Group starts up again on May 15th, and a special podcast/meditation on "Intuition" was be released to paid subscribers this month. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training program beginning June 13th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 144 - Microdosing Grief and The Practice of Saying Goodbye May 15, 2025

In a spontaneous episode, Ethan discusses grief and loss while processing multiple events. At a recent compassion meditation retreat, colleague and friend René Fay gave a presentation where she discussed the need to "Microdose Grief," to take it in little by little so that we can honor the small moments of loss to develop familiarity with the experience when the big waves come. Through remembering the life and the recent death of a dharma friend, Ethan explores a famous buddhist quote about impermanence ("The Cup Is Already Broken") and explores how grief can be used as a tool for popping our hearts and minds outside of the confines of linear time, into the spontaneous presence and open-heartedness of what the Zen masters call "Being Time."

This episode of The Road Home is dedicated to the memory of Ralph De La Rosa, who was a friend (and a guest on the podcast) who passed away suddenly on May 10, 2025. Ralph was a dharma teacher and trauma therapist, as well as the author of three books which each explored Internal Family Systems and Somatic Therapy in relation to Tantric Buddhist thought: Outshining Trauma, Don't Tell Me To Relax, and Monkey is the Messenger. For resources for processing Ralph's passing, you can follow the information posted in the youtube video, or reach out to Ralph's assistant, Amanda Ludwig. Visit Ethan's Substack for the show notes that include the prophetic and poignant last Dharma talk that Ralph gave the day before he/they passed away.

Support The Road Home:

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Meditation Group starts up again on May 15th, and a special podcast/meditation on "Intuition" will be released to paid subscribers this Friday, May 2nd. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training program beginning June 13th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 143 - Meditations for Mortals with Oliver Burkeman May 09, 2025

How can we embrace the limitations of time and the certainty of death and create real fulfillment that thrives on an honest assessment of our human predicament? These are the questions at the heart of this episode. Ethan welcomes back bestselling author and journalist Oliver Burkeman for a discussion of finitude, death, limitations, productivity, and dueling concepts of the meaning of meditation.

Oliver Burkeman is the author of Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts, and the bestselling Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, is now available. Oliver wrote a long-running weekly column on psychology for The Guardian, "This Column Will Change Your Life," and his work has also appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Psychologies, and New Philosopher. Learn more about him at oliverburkeman.com, and subscribe to his regular newsletter, The Imperfectionist.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Meditation Group starts up again on May 15th, and a special podcast/meditation on "Intuition" will be released to paid subscribers this Friday, May 2nd. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify,Ethan's Website, etc).

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training program beginning June 13th, 2025. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 142 - The White Lotus, The God Realm and Pop-Culture Dharma Apr 30, 2025

In this episode, Ethan does what at least 40 people have asked him to do (special shout-out to Michele S. in Iowa who convinced him to devote a whole podcast episode to it!) - share his thoughts, as a Buddhist, on Season 3 of the Max streaming series The White Lotus. To do so, he explains three different ways to look at the concept of "Dharma Art," along with a discussion of the three realms. He also ponders why pop culture seems to so rarely depict the act of meditation itself with any experiential accuracy. Note: a few moderate spoilers (though not major ones) are in the podcast, but the first twenty minutes primarily concern Dharma Art and The "God Realm."

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more! The Meditation Group starts up again on May 8th, and a special podcast/meditation on "Intuition" will be released to paid subscribers this Friday, May 2nd. You can also subscribe to The Road Home podcast wherever you get your pods (Apple, Spotify, Ethan's Website, etc).

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 141 - Strong Back, Soft Front: The Posture of Meditation is The Posture of Courage Apr 21, 2025

In this episode, Ethan links a crucial set of instructions from mindfulness meditation teachers of the past regarding how we carry our posture to what it means to show up in this world at a time of chaos. He discusses the instructions on mindfulness meditation from the "warrior" tradition of enlightened society, as well as decoding the qualities of the instruction to maintain a "strong back, and a soft front."

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more!

Check out all the cool offerings at our podcast sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses co-taught by Ethan and others, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 140 - Equanimity Feels Different on a Roller Coaster Apr 07, 2025

After tariffs were broadly imposed by the current American regime (including, apparently on uninhabited islands populated mostly by penguins) causing a nearly unprecedented crash of the stock market, and after attending the lovely and unexpectedly massive protest marches that took place on April 5, Ethan ponders how to deal with extreme states of mind with a world on a roller coaster marked by fear and greed. The key, he says, is to be able to differentiate between arising mental emotions and the awareness that contains and welcomes them, and then to continuously generate compassion for all human beings. He offers two simple questions we can each ask ourselves when we encounter intense states of mind as humanity's roller coaster ride become increasingly topsy turvy—and perhaps increasingly hopeful—in the months ahead.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Notes:

To find further explanation of the eight worldly winds, check out Ethan's latest book Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds or the adapted essay in Lion's Roar Magazine.

Ep. 139 - A Buddhist View of A.I. (It Ain't Great...) Mar 28, 2025

In light of revelations about the theft of countless authors' work by one A.I. company (guess which one), Ethan finally talks about a topic he's been requested to cover for a while: Buddhist views on artificial intelligence. He begins by positioning the conversation within the frame of View and Intention, asking the question of what "technology" is and why and how we even want it to progress, along with proposing the sacredness of human labor, wisdom and creativity as a basic Buddhist principle, as well as a principle of right livelihood. He also includes a Buddhist understanding of the meaning of consciousness, and why AI might never meet the standard.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon. Free video courses, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Notes:

To see some of the energy usage date on artificial intelligence, see this link

To see which author's works have been pirated, see The Atlantic's list here.

To read about The "Suzuki Roshi" Chatbot, read here.

An alternate translation of Suzuki Roshi's famed quote to his students is:

"Each of you is perfect the way you are ... and you can use a little improvement."

Ep. 138 - Torched Teslas, Fart Noises, And Right Action Against The Oligarchy Mar 21, 2025

Ethan delves further into right action during a time of protest and chaos, using the recent examples of Tesla cars and cybertrucks being set on fire as a launching point. In The Power of Choice episode, he looked into the five precepts as guidelines for empowered and skillful action. In this episode, he looks into actions of mind as our guide: whether our actions are furthering our fixation on the three poisons of greed, hatred and delusion, or whether they are helping us liberate from those confused mentalities. Can we set samsara on fire instead?

Ethan also makes a bad dad joke about using Tesla technology to make fart noises happen on a meditation retreat when our mind wanders or we need to wake up.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training, starting March 21 (this week!). Free video courses, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 137 - People-Pleasing: A Buddhist View Mar 13, 2025

Ethan delves into the Bodhisattva teachings on happiness, benefitting beings, and "idiot compassion," or what happens when compassion becomes an ego construction. How do we tell the difference between helping others in a nourishing way, on the one hand, and doing things for others that we really don't want to do that leave us burnt out and resentful? And what do you do if no one thanks you for the amazing charcuterie plate you made for them?

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training, starting March 21 (next week!). Free video courses, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 136 - The Heart Sutra, Groundlessness, Joy, and Crumbling Patriarchy with Susan Piver Mar 07, 2025

Ethan welcomes bestselling author and Dharma teacher Susan Piver for a discussion of the groundlessness of our current world framed through her new book Inexplicable Joy: On The Heart Sutra. If you'd like to read a translation of this classic Buddhist text, you can find that on Ethan's Substack.

Susan Piver is the New York Times bestselling author of many books, including The Four Noble Truths of Love: Buddhist Wisdom for Modern Relationships and The Buddhist Enneagram: Nine Paths to Warriorship. Her most recent book is Inexplicable Joy: On the Heart Sutra. Susan has been a student of Buddhism since 1993, graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004 and began to teach meditation in 2005. In 2014, she founded The Open Heart Project, an online dharma center with nearly 20000 members.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training, starting March 21. Free video courses, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download.

Ep. 135 - The Three Lords of Materialism Feb 26, 2025

Ethan discusses the classic origins of the worldview of "Materialism," as well a framework developed by the Tibetan teacher Chogyam Trungpa called "The Three Lords of Materialism" for looking at how we can notice our tendency to chase peak experiences in the arenas of the physical world, intellectual experience, and of course, our spiritual paths.

Please support the podcast via Substack and subscribe for free or with small monthly contributions. Paid subscribers will receive occasional extras like guided meditations, extra podcast episodes and more.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training, starting March 21. Free courses, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download. Also check out free upcoming events with Professor Robert Thurman and David Nichtern on March 4th!

Ep. 134 - The Power of Choice: The Five Precepts as a Recipe for Transformation Jan 31, 2025

Ethan discusses a classic Buddhist concept, sīla (or shila), through the lens of knowing where to place our attention and action, knowing "what to cultivate and what to reject." Choices shift energy and energy can build power, and that power can be the difference between awakening and confusion. Ethan also argues, using the five precepts (or five mindfulness trainings) as a guide, that this might be the key to building new powerful systems in the world. He also examines a rule for social change involving only 3.5% of us making different, more awakened choices. Imagine if only a few percent of us shifted our energy from harmful systems into something healthier.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program (The first 6-Week module, Entering The Path, is open to all) and Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training, starting March 21. Free courses, such as The Three Marks of Existence, are also available for download. Also check out free upcoming events with Duncan Trussell and Robert Thurman.

Ep. 133 - The Dharma of Film: A Complete Unknown, Or A Cesspool of Ego? with Andrew Buckland Jan 24, 2025

Ethan is joined for an insightful discussion about Dharma Art with Academy Award-winning film editor and Buddhist meditator Andrew Buckland. They discuss the practice of filmmaking and creativity more generally, as well as Andrew's path, the film A Complete Unknown, the Bob Dylan biopic which was Andrew's latest editing project. Finally, they discuss why working in the film profession sometimes feels like "A Cesspool of Ego."

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program (The first 6-Week module, Entering The Path, is open to all and starts January 28, 2025) and Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training.

About Andrew Buckland ACE:

Andrew is an Academy Award winning film editor who won the Oscar for his work on FORD v FERRARI alongside Michael McCusker ACE.

He received his B.F.A. in Film from Purchase College and landed his first job on Alan Pakula's THE DEVIL's OWN as an apprentice editor. Since then Andrew has been a part of the editorial teams on many high-profile films including Mike Nichol's CLOSER and CHARLIE WILSON'S WAR.

Andrew subsequently directed two documentary films THE LONG WALL HOME and SOMOS WICHI, which won the 2012 Documentary Expose Award at The Peace OnEarth Film Festival, Chicago USA.

Andrew began his collaboration with James Mangold on KNIGHT AND DAY and THE WOLVERINE, and later edited FORD v FERRARI, and INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY. Other credits include Co-Editing Tate Taylor's THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN and Additional Editing GET ON UP.

His most recent collaboration with James Mangold is editing A COMPLETE UNKNOWN.

Ep. 132 - Is Mindfulness Enough (Why Study Buddhist Philosophy)? Jan 15, 2025

Ethan is joined for an insightful discussion about Entering the Study of Buddhism with the faculty of Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies program.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program (The first 6-Week module, Entering The Path, is open to all and starts January 28, 2025) and Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training.

About the Faculty:

Lou Sharma has been part of the Buddhist Studies faculty for four years. She is interested in the ways mindfulness can empower more compassionate cultures of work, inspired by 10+ years of experience as a corporate researcher and brand strategist.

Jackie Stewart is a meditation teacher and mindfulness advisor based in NYC. She is currently a student of Mingyur Rinpoche, and serves as a practice leader in his international community, Tergar.

Maho Kawachi was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Maho first encountered meditation and Buddhism in downtown Manhattan in 2000. She became an avid practitioner in 2008 and has over a decade of experience, practice, training, and certification credentials including completion of the Interdependence Project Teachers Training, Mindful Meditation Teachers Certified Program, and Mindful Mentor Training.

Heather Shaw has been a student/teacher of yoga and meditation, steeped in the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, as well as Western psychotherapy and neuroscience since 1998.

Eric Gerard is an actor from Chicago,and also serves as the Co-Owner and Artistic Director at Blackbox Acting, a school that aims to prepare artists for their careers through a holistic approach.

Ep. 131 - The World Is On Fire Jan 13, 2025

Ethan offers a lovingkindness (metta/maitri) meditation for all who are effected by the climate crisis, and discusses why when global crises require our action, our practice might be a privilege, but it's also a necessity.

The climate crisis recognizes no borders, and we are truly all in this together. Just a few links to help and get involved with the Los Angeles wildfires are: Global Empowerment Mission, Mutual Aid LA, and our friends at Pandemic of Love' Volunteer Sign Up form.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program (starts January 28, 2025) and Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training.

Ep. 130 - Five Keys To A Sustainable Meditation Practice Jan 03, 2025

Ethan discusses the difficulty with keeping a meditation practice going that is relevant for those who are new to practice as well as those who have been finding their seat for many years. He offers five keys to making your practice more sustainable this year.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program (starts January 28, 2025) and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free talk on Engaged Buddhism with Ethan Nichtern and Shannon Watts on January 7th.

Get on Ethan's monthly email list here. Order his new book Confidence here.

Ep 129 - The Astrology of 2025 (Not A Chapter, A Whole New Book) with Juliana McCarthy Dec 26, 2024

Ethan is joined again by friend, bestselling author, dharma practitioner and astrologer Juliana McCarthy. They discuss the various movements in astrology in 2024 and 2025 from a mindful perspective. Juliana gives her optimistic take on what is to come, calling Mid 2025 onward "Not A New Chapter, But A Whole New Book," why Ethan is praying for Star Trek aliens,and they discuss world events and how the US might avoid what appears to be an astrological repeat of The French Revolution.

Juliana runs a popular Instagram feed, @etherealculture. She gives talks regularly and leads various workshops and retreats. If you're interested in online talks, videos, and class, visit her Patreon page here. She also wrote a book called, The Stars Within You: A Modern Guide to Astrology, published by Roost Books and distributed by Penguin Random House. Learn more about it here.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program (starts January 28, 2025) and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Join Ethan for our annual New Year's Eve Contemplation Practice Gathering on December 31 at 3-4pm ET. Check out the free talk on Engaged Buddhism with Ethan Nichtern and Shannon Watts on January 7th.

Get on Ethan's monthly email list here. Order his new book Confidence here.

Ep. 128 - Enlightened Society with David Nichtern Dec 17, 2024

Ethan is joined by Dharma Moon founder and award winning musician/composer David Nichtern for a true moment of Nichternity. They engage in a wide-ranging discussion (the only kind they know how to have) about Wicked, Ariana Grande, Ethan's issue with musicals, the death of the UnitedHealthcare CEO, the Kaliyuga or "dark ages," fear of impermanence, building an awakened environment of art and culture, and, finally, the elusive concept called "Enlightened Society."

David Nichtern is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He is the author of the critically acclaimed books Awakening From the Daydream: Reimagining The Buddha's Wheel of Life and Creativity, Spirituality & Making a Buck. He mentors individual students both in person and online, and leads meditation teacher training programs around the world. He is also a four time Emmy-winning and two time Grammy-nominated composer and producer, as well as the founder of Dharma Moon Records and 5 Points Records.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program (starts January 28, 2025) and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. free talk on "Dragon at The Oasis" with Sat Hon and David Nichtern on December 19th. Join us for our annual New Year's Eve Contemplation Practice Gathering on December 31 at 3-4pm ET. Check out the free talk on Engaged Buddhism with Ethan Nichtern and Shannon Watts on January 7th.

Get on Ethan's monthly email list here. Order his new book Confidence here.

Ep. 127 - Conspirituality: Compassion Down The Rabbithole with Derek Beres Dec 02, 2024

Ethan is joined by health journalist and podcaster Derek Beres to discuss the dominance of misinformation in the health, wellness and spiritual spaces, and how we might be able to understand and converse with the people—and the parts of ourselves—that have gone "down the rabbithole."

Derek Beres is a multi-faceted author, speaker, and podcaster based in Portland, Oregon. He has served in senior editorial positions at a number of tech companies and has years of experience in health, science, and music writing. He regularly speaks on science and media literacy. Derek is the co-host of the Conspirituality podcast.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free talk on What is Karma? with Ethan and Sah D'Simone on December 11th. free talk on "Dragon at The Oasis" with Sat Hon and David Nichtern on December 19th. Join us for our annual New Year's Eve contemplation practice gathering on December 31 at 3-4pm ET

Get on Ethan's monthly email list here. Order his new book Confidence here.

Ep. 126 - Rock-Bottom Individualism and The Possibility of Sangha Nov 25, 2024

Ethan discusses the addiction concept of "rock-bottom" and how that concept can be transposed onto the worldview of individualism and individual power. In what ways, from a Buddhist standpoint, is individualism healthy and necessary? In what ways is it confused? Can we transition to a more collective or community-oriented worldview, and what is the role of the sangha in all this?

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free talk on What is Karma? with Ethan and Sah D'Simone on December 11th.free talk on "Dragon at The Oasis" with Sat Hon and David Nichtern on December 19th.

Get on Ethan's monthly email list here. Order his new book Confidence here.

Ep. 125 - After The Apocalypse Nov 11, 2024

Ethan shares thoughts in the aftermath of the shocking (to him, at least) results of the US presidential election.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free talk on Grief and Heartbreak, "The Gift of a Broken Heart" with Brian Welch on November 14th and the free talk on What is Karma? with Ethan and Sah D'Simone on December 11th.

Get on Ethan's monthly email list here. Order his new book Confidence here.

Ep. 124 - "Does It Count?" - Cortland Dahl on Short Meditation, Mindful Living, And Feeling Allergic To Religion Oct 15, 2024

Ethan talks to author, Dharma teacher, and scientist Cortland Dahl about his new book A Meditator's Guide To Buddhism. They discuss research on short meditation sessions, mindful living, and touch on the meaning of "guru" in the modern world.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free Talk on Karma with Ethan and Sah D'Simone on December 11th.

Get on Ethan's monthly email list here. Order his new book Confidence here.

Cortland Dahl, Ph.D. is a leading expert on mindfulness, meditation, and the science of wellbeing. His eclectic background includes long periods of solitary retreat in the Himalayan foothills of Nepal and the translation of ancient Tibetan meditation manuals, as well as cutting-edge research on the science of wellbeing and the creation of an acclaimed meditation app. He is a scientist, author, translator, entrepreneur, and meditation teacher, but his true passion is using ancient wisdom and modern science to help people flourish.

Ep. 123 - No But Really, We're All In This Together Oct 07, 2024

Reeling from the events of the last 10 days in Western North Carolina (which directly and tragically affected two friends who have been on The Road Home podcast), as well as close friends directly affected by the bombing and aggression in the Middle East, Ethan returns to some basic thoughts on the truth of our interdependence, and the limits of looking at our path from an individual perspective.

If you'd like to make a donation to Pandemic of Love to directly help their mutual aid work in Western North Carolina/Asheville, please Venmo @PandemicofLove as they give $250 grants to vetted families in immediate need of basic supplies.

If you'd like to make a donation to the rebuilding of podcast guest and friend Deborah Eden Tull's home, please do so via Gofundme.com

If you'd like to help relief efforts in Beirut and beyond, please visit Doctors Without Borders.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training, starting October 11.

Get on Ethan's mailing list here.

Ep. 122 - Meditating With Anxiety (For Election Season and Beyond) Sep 23, 2024

Ethan looks at the nature of anxiety as a special-case emotion and offers a short dharma talk on working with anxiety, then guides a 15-minute lovingkindness with supportive visualization practice for working with any anxiety we might be feeling during election season or beyond.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training, starting October 11.

Buy Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds wherever books are sold in paperback, audiobook or e-book! Visit https://ethannichtern.com to join Ethan's maililng list and see his latest offerings!

Ep. 121 - Why We Stereotype and How to Break Bias with Anu Gupta Sep 17, 2024

Ethan talks to author, meditation teacher, scientist and lawyer Anu Gupta about his new book Breaking Bias: Where Stereotypes and Prejudices Come From--and the Science-Backed Method to Unravel Them. They discuss Anu's life, how bias brought him to the brink of taking his own life, and his extensive work with organizations getting to the roots of internalized biases. They get into bias from both a Buddhist philosophical and scientific perspective. Finally, discuss the current state of America in terms of bias, as well how prejudice might be affecting our experience of the upcoming elections.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free The Journey of Becoming a Meditation Teacher with Rebecca D'onofrio and David Nichtern on Thurs Sep 19!

Anu Gupta is a human rights lawyer, scientist, scholar of bias, meditation teacher, and the founder and CEO of BE MORE with Anu, an e-learning company that trains professionals across corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors to advance inclusion and wellness by breaking bias. His work has reached 300+ organizations, training more than 80,000 professionals and impacting over 30 million lives.

Ep. 120 - A Buddhist Perspective on "The Shadow" and Shadow Work Sep 10, 2024

Ethan provides a dharma talk on the (originally Jungian) idea of The Shadow and the current popularization of "Shadow Work." He explores the ways that Tantric Buddhism offers to work with our more difficult and suppressed experiences, as well as the concept of treating our most difficult experience as "beautiful monsters."

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free The Journey of Becoming a Meditation Teacher with Rebecca D'onofrio and David Nichtern!

Visit https://ethannichtern.com for books, upcoming events, classes, and to get on his monthly email list! You can get a copy of Ethan's new book Confidence: Holding Your Seat Throught Life's Eight Worldly Winds in paperback, audiobook, or e-book!

Ep. 119 - Why Is Self-Compassion So Hard To Practice??? Aug 28, 2024

Ethan provides a dharma talk on why practicing self-compassion can be so tricky and so "blocked." He offers some helpful tips you might not have considered (or maybe you have!) for practicing lovingkindness and compassion, both on the meditation seat and in life in general.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free Imposter Syndrome event on September 3 with Duncan Trussell and David Nichtern!

Visit https://ethannichtern.com for books, upcoming events, classes, and to get on his monthly email list!

Ep. 118 - The Mindful Rebel: Holding Space To Just Be with Shawn J. Moore Aug 23, 2024

Ethan talks to teacher Shawn J. Moore, aka The Mindful Rebel, aka "Part Buddha, Part Biggie" about his somewhat unique path to mindfulness and dharma, and about the meaning of holding space, allowing yourself to just be, and transformational leadership.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free Imposter Syndrome event on September 3 with Duncan Trussell and David Nichtern!

About the Guest: Residing at the intersection of leadership and mindfulness, Shawn J. Moore creates sacred spaces for stillness and self-inquiry to help social impact leaders align their strengths, intentions, and impact. Through his integrative approach, he holds transformative containers for self-renewal, personal discovery, and capacity-building that ease clients on their journey towards peace, clarity, and freedom. Shawn is committed to empowering change-makers to become embodied leaders – unified in mind, body, and heart – with the tools to mindfully pause, reconnect to their inner knowing, make strengths-driven decisions, and lead the change they believe the world needs. Shawn has an intuitive way of weaving all that he has learned on his path to help those on the inner journey of discovery – including meditation, sound healing, yoga nidra, and coaching, all through the lens of Buddhist philosophy.

Ep. 117 - Crucial Questions: On Remorse and The Four Powers of Karmic Transformation Aug 15, 2024

Ethan provides a dharma talk on the relationship between Self, Non-Self, Guilt and Remorse, and delves into a classic teaching called the "four powers" for how we meet our habitual stuck places and negative behavior with an eye toward gradual transformation.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free Imposter Syndrome event on September 3 with Duncan Trussell and David Nichtern!

Visit https://ethannichtern.com for books, upcoming events, classes, and to get on his monthly email list!

Ep. 116 - Finding The Source: Original Mind, Zen and Tantra with Dr. Gaylon Ferguson Aug 01, 2024

Ethan talks to one of his key teachers along the path, Dr. Gaylon Ferguson about Beginner's Mind, Original Mind and the relationship between Zen and Tantric Buddhism drawing from Dr. Ferguson's new book Welcoming Beginner's Mind: Zen and Tibetan Buddhist Wisdom on Experiencing Our True Nature.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free Imposter Syndrome event on September 3 with Duncan Trussell and David Nichtern!

Dr. Gaylon Ferguson, PhD, was core faculty in Religious and Interdisciplinary Studies for fifteen years at Naropa University. A senior Buddhist teacher, he has led mindfulness retreats since 1976 and is the author of the new book Welcoming Beginner's Mind (2024), Natural Wakefulness, and Natural Bravery.

Ep. 115 - Not One and Not Two: Unity, Cult-Thinking, And Meeting The Political Moment Jul 25, 2024

Ethan continues his insights into our political moment after VP Kamala Harris ascends to candidacy. He reviews five practices for engagement with this season (reducing media intake, increasing volunteering and engagement, mindfulness meditation, body practice, and rest) and explores the Buddhist idea of "not one not two" for how we can experience unity at this time without cult thinking or purity testing.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training. Check out the free Imposter Syndrome event on September 3 with Duncan Trussell and David Nichtern!

Please remember to pick up a copy of Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds out everywhere!

Ep. 114 - Democracy is Something You Practice, Not Something You Watch Jul 18, 2024

Ethan wades into the 2024 American election, first sharing some thoughts on recent events, the dystopian state of American media, and finally, five practices we can each do to feel more connected and empowered and less panicky as the crucial election approaches. And yes, he's an optimist about American democracy.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the Yearlong Buddhist Studies program and Mindful Meditation Teacher Training.

Please remember to pick up a copy of Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds out everywhere!

Ep. 113 - David Nichtern: Windhorse, Confidence, And Riding The Energy of Life Jun 24, 2024

Ethan and David Nichtern discuss the priniciple and practices of Windhorse meditation, and how to ride the energy of one's life and emotions, especially when showing up to do something that is hard to do. This is the second part of their recent conversation. The first part appeared on David's Creativitiy, Spirituality and Making a Buck podcast.

Please remember to pick up a copy of Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds out everywhere!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the upcoming Course with Ethan on Confidence and Windhorse Meditation!

David Nichtern is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He is the author of the critically acclaimed books Awakening From the Daydream: Reimagining The Buddha's Wheel of Life and Creativity, Spirituality & Making a Buck. He mentors individual students both in person and online, and leads meditation teacher training programs around the world. He is also a four time Emmy-winning and two time Grammy-nominated composer and producer, as well as the founder of Dharma Moon Records and 5 Points Records.

Ep. 112 - Marianne Williamson: Spirituality, Politics, and a more Mystical Understanding of Jesus Jun 18, 2024

Ethan and Marianne Williamson discuss her unique spiritual journey, her new book The Mystic Jesus: The Mind of Love, and her wisdom regarding the intersection of spiritual practice and political engagement. Her book is available everywhere in all formats now!

Please remember to pick up a copy of Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds out everywhere!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including the upcoming Course with Ethan on Confidence and Windhorse Meditation!

Marianne Williamson: For more than four decades, Marianne Williamson has been a leader of spiritually progressive circles. She is the author of 16 books, four of which have been #1 New York Times best sellers. Her website: https://marianne.com

Williamson founded Project Angel Food, a non-profit organization that has delivered more than 18 million meals to ill and dying homebound patients in the Los Angeles area since 1989. The group was created to help people suffering from the ravages of HIV/AIDS. She has also worked throughout her career on poverty, anti-hunger and racial reconciliation issues. In 2004, she co-founded The Peace Alliance and supported the creation of a U.S. Department of Peace. Williamson ran for the democratic nomination for the Presidency of the United States in both 2020 and 2024.

Ep. 111 - Is Confidence Gendered? Plus, Thoughts on Activism and The Eight Worldly Winds with Shannon Watts Jun 11, 2024

Ethan and activist and author Shannon Watts recently had a conversation on confidence, gender and activism on IG live.

Please remember to pick up a copy of Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds out everywhere!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training starting June 14.

Shannon Watts: The founder of Moms Demand Action, Shannon Watts was named one of TIME's 100 Most Influential People, Glamour's Woman of the Year and Forbes 50 Over 50. Watts served as a full-time volunteer leader for Moms Demand Action for 11 years. Under her watch, the organization accumulated over 10 million supporters and established a chapter in every state. Volunteers have stopped the NRA's priority legislation in statehouses 90 percent of the time every year for the past decade; passed over 500 gun safety laws across the country; changed corporate policies; educated millions of Americans about secure gun storage; and elected thousands of gun sense candidates to office, including hundreds of its own volunteers. She is also a self-proclaimed "Type A Buddhist."

Ep. 110 - Can Racism End? A Conversation with Justin Michael Williams and Shelly Tygielski Jun 03, 2024

Ethan interviews two teachers and co-authors of the bold new book How We Ended Racism: Realizing A New Possibility in One Generation, Justin Michael Williams and Shelly Tygielski. The conversation bridges optimism and pragmatism, along with inner and collective work. Take a listen!

Justin Michael Williams brings people together across divides with a multigenerational message of hope, empowerment, and unity. He is an award-winning speaker, Grammy®-nominated recording artist, and author of Stay Woke: A Meditation Guide for the Rest of Us. For more, visit justinmichaelwilliams.com.

Shelly Tygielski is a trauma-informed mindfulness teacher, speaker, and activist. She founded the CNN Hero-featured global grassroots organization Pandemic of Love, is the co-host and executive producer of the television series All Hands on Deck, and is the author of Sit Down to Rise Up. For more, visit shellytygielski.com.

Check out their new book How We Ended Racism: Realizing A New Possibility in One Generationwherever you get your books.

Please remember to pick up a copy of Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds out this week! The book is now out in Paperback, E-book, and Audiobook!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training starting June 14. Check out Ethan's Four Week Summer Course in July-August "Confidence and Windhorse."

Ep. 109 - The Humility Olympics - Confidence Book Release Conversation with Jaimal Yogis and Lou Sharma May 24, 2024

Ethan continues to explore the themes of his new book by discussing self-confidence, no-self, working with praise and criticism, and humility with Jaimal Yogis and Lou Sharma.

Please remember to pick up a copy of Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds out this week!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training starting June 14. Sign up for the free online lecture with David Nichtern on May 28 on "Teaching Meditation and The Role of The Teacher."

Jaimal Yogis is an award winning author of nonfiction and fiction books for children and adults - including his memoir SALTWATER BUDDHA and most recently the bestselling Scholastic series CITY OF DRAGONS. Lou Sharma is a meditation teacher and brand strategy consultant based in Charlotte, NC. She has practiced meditation for over 15 years, and studied Buddhism within Tibetan Buddhist traditions, including the Magyu lineage of Lama Tsultrim Allione. She is a graduate of Dharma Moon's Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training program.

Ep. 108 - Want Confidence? Practice Compassion May 19, 2024

Ethan continues to explore the themes of his new book by looking at the first of the "four powers of confidence." Why does the practice of compassion help us overcome insecurity and show up when life gets hard? What are the three elements of compassion?

Please remember to pick up a copy of Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds out this week!

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training starting June 14. Sign up for the free online lecture with David Nichtern on May 28 on "Teaching Meditation and The Role of The Teacher."

Ep. 107 - Confidence: Running The Gauntlet of Hope and Fear May 06, 2024

Ethan continues to explore the themes of his new book by looking at how the discussion of confidence can be seen as a discussion of our relationship to Fear and Hope. He explores the roots of Confidence is ancient Buddhism, as well as just beginning to unpack the ideas of the eight worldly winds, experiences that every human must face.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training starting June 14. Sign up for the free lecture with David Nichtern and Duncan Trussell on "Deepening Your Practice to Teach: The Journey from Meditation Practitioner to Meditation Guide."

Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

Pre-Order Ethan's new book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds to be released May 21, wherever you get your books. Sign up for the free virtual release party with Jaimal Yogis and Ethan Nichtern on May 23!

Ep. 106 - The Relationship Between Meditation and Confidence Apr 23, 2024

Ethan begins to explore the themes of his new book by looking at how our meditation practice can help us to work with the crucial and elusive experience of confidence. He explores our attitude of how we enter into the meditation session and engage with our own sense of worthiness as our minds, and our lives, knock us around. How do we learn to "Hold our Seat" in the midst of a messy mind and a world on fire.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training starting June 14. Sign up for the free lecture with David Nichtern and Duncan Trussell on "Deepening Your Practice to Teach: The Journey from Meditation Practitioner to Meditation Guide."

Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

Pre-Order Ethan's new book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds to be released May 21, wherever you get your books. Sign up for the free virtual release party with Jaimal Yogis and Ethan Nichtern on May 23!

Ep. 105 - Crucial Questions: Can Buddhists Believe in Magic? Apr 15, 2024

Using the recent solar eclipse (and a few suprising responses to Ethan celebrating it) as a jumping off point, Ethan looks at the worldviews of scientific materialism and animism, Ethan looks at the role of magic in developing a grounded but awe-inspired approach to our spiritual practice.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training starting June 14. Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

Pre-Order Ethan's new book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds to be released May 21, wherever you get your books.

Ep. 104 - Sass and Social Connection with Sah D'Simone Apr 08, 2024

How do you go from a life in fashion to being a well-known and respected spiritual teacher and icon? Ethan is joined by friend, teacher and author of the brand new book Spiritually, We (out now) for a discussion of Sah's path into meditation, Buddhism, developing his own movement-based practice system and becoming a teacher and healer.

Check out all the cool offerings at our sponsor Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training starting June 14. Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

Sah D'Simone is a spiritual revolutionary, artist, and the internationally bestselling author Spiritually Sassy. He's known for hosting the top-rated Spiritually Sassy Show podcast and for creating the Somatic Activated Healing (SAH) Method™. Sah works in the Spiritual Care Department at Cedars-Sinai Hospital and is a guest lecturer at Columbia University. His remarkable contributions to homeless youth in Venice Beach, California earned him the CARE award from the city and county of Los Angeles.

Pre-Order Ethan's new book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds to be released May 21, wherever you get your books.

Ep. 103 - Overcoming Control: Discipline, Joy and Letting Go of "Biohack" Mentality Apr 01, 2024

Starting off from the recent work—and calling out—of scientist and wellness personality Andrew Huberman, Ethan explores the relationship between trying to control one's biological reality in relationship to controlling one's environment and relationships. Ethan looks at discipline from a Buddhist perspective, and how the practice of discipline leads us—ironically—to let go of control and perhaps, in turn, experience real joy.

Check out all the cool offerings at Dharma Moon, including upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Trainings. Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

Pre-Order Ethan's new book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds to be released May 21, wherever you get your books.

Ep. 102 - No More Buddhist Guilt: Working With Obstacles in Meditation Mar 18, 2024

Is "Buddhist Guilt" a thing? How does it stop us from meditating? Using his own experience with himself, students, and the classic teachings, Ethan's gives tips for how to work with obstacles that stop us from meditating and that obstruct our practice when we get to the meditation seat.

Check out all the cool offerings at Dharma Moon, including the upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training beginning March 22, 2024. Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

Pre-Order Ethan's new book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds to be released May 21, wherever you get your books.

Ep. 101 - Does Age Equal Wisdom? Mar 08, 2024

Using American political media's obsessive focus on (only one of) the presidential candidate's advanced age, Ethan examines a Buddhist view on the ways in which aging brings about both greater wisdom and, perhaps, greater stuckness, and the ways in which youth includes great imagination and also impatience. Ethan examines the concepts of eldership, mentorship, and lineage from a Buddhist perspective and examines his own growth path "aging" as a person, as a Buddhist student and teacher, over the last 20-25 years.

Check out all the cool offerings at Dharma Moon, including the upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training beginning March 22, 2024. Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

For an easily downloadable, self-paced video course to establish a mindfulness meditation practice, check out Foundations of Mindfulness.

Pre-order Ethan's new book Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds, due out May 21, 2024! You can get an advanced PDF of the book and a free audio meditation if you order in advance!

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Ep. 100 - Dr. Gottesman's Gift, Zuckerberg's Bunker, and Doing Your Taxes - Musings on Generosity Feb 29, 2024

Ethan discusses the Buddhist practice of generosity by looking at an amazing billionaire's gift by Dr. Ruth Gottesman, another famous billionaire's apocalypse bunker, and, of course, the annual headache of doing your taxes.

Check out all the cool offerings at Dharma Moon, including the upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training beginning March 22, 2024. Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

For an easily downloadable, self-paced video course to establish a mindfulness meditation practice, check out Foundations of Mindfulness.

Pre-order Ethan's new book Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds, due out May 21, 2024! You can get an advanced PDF of the book and a free audio meditation if you order in advance!

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Ep. 99 - Freaking Out, Small and Large - Anxiety Check-In and Guided Meditation Feb 23, 2024

Holding the awful events of the world in mind, Ethan discusses anxiety as we try to hold together our personal world, our relationships, and the larger world in chaos. He goes further into the nooks and crannies of the four noble truths in relation to generalized anxiety, and closes by offering a guided meditation to work with your anxiety right now.

Check out all the cool offerings at Dharma Moon, including the free online event on Feb 27 with David Nichtern and Robert Thurman, "Teaching Mindfulness and The Role of The Teacher." Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

For an easily downloadable, self-paced video course to establish a mindfulness meditation practice, check out Foundations of Mindfulness.

Pre-order Ethan's new book Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds, due out May 21, 2024! You can get an advanced PDF of the book and a free audio meditation if you order in advance!

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Ep 98. - Apocalypse Now? A Buddhist Take On Our Obsession with THE END Feb 16, 2024

In this inventive episode, Ethan discusses our obsession with apocalyptic thinking using the four noble truths. A lifelong fan of science fiction, he discusses the Buddhist roots of dystopian obsession, and the confusing craving to annihilate existence in the question for peace.

Check out all the cool offerings at Dharma Moon, including the free online event on Feb 27 with David Nichtern and Robert Thurman, "Teaching Mindfulness and The Role of The Teacher." Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

For an easily downloadable, self-paced video course to establish a mindfulness meditation practice, check out Foundations of Mindfulness.

Pre-order Ethan's new book Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life's Eight Worldly Winds, due out May 21, 2024!

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Ep. 97 - Narrative Healing with Lisa Weinert Feb 09, 2024

Ethan is joined by author, teacher and writing coach Lisa Weinert. They discuss the power of storytelling as both a spiritual and psychological method for healing. They also talk about why the act of writing is so excruciating, as well as the relationship between storytelling and embodiment. They definitely do not discuss their 9th Grade English teacher, Mr. Hubner.

Lisa is the author of the book Narrative Healing: Awaken the Power of Your Story (Hachette, 2023). She has taught and lectured on the power of storytelling at institutions such as Wesleyan University, Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, and Fortune 500 media companies. Beginning her career in book publishing, Weinert eventually became a certified yoga instructor with a specialty in trauma-informed and restorative yoga, leading her to combine her professional training with her own experience with trauma to create Narrative Healing, a writing program that seeks to release our stories in a way that is accessible and empowering.

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com, and check out the upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training along with many other wonderful offerings.

Ep. 96 - Crucial Questions: What IS Basic Goodness, Really? Feb 02, 2024

Ethan discusses the often confusing term "Basic Goodness." He breaks down some thoughts on why the term—and the transformative experience it points toward—can be elusive and confusing. He also goes into some of the historical origins of the term that illuminate its meaning and offers tools for how to work with it to ask wise questions about our experience in both meditation and everyday life.

Check out all the cool offerings at Dharma Moon, including the free online event with David Nichtern and Duncan Trussell, "Meditation and Beginners Mind." Also check out upcoming in-person retreats in May and June.

For an easily downloadable, self-paced video course to establish a mindfulness meditation practice, check out Foundations of Mindfulness.

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Ep. 95 - Eco-Dharma and Luminous Darkness with Deborah Eden Tull Jan 29, 2024

Ethan is joined by author and teacher Deborah Eden Tull. Eden's Buddhist teaching emphasizes the personal, interpersonal, transpersonal, societal, ecological, mystical, and global impacts of awareness practice. Her current focus is Sacred Activism, empowering people in conscious response and regenerative leadership as we collectively navigate the climate crisis. She is a member of the national Eco-Dharma Advisory Committee of Buddhist teachers and leaders in the eco-dharma movement.

Eden's first book, The Natural Kitchen: Your Guide for the Sustainable Food Revolution (Process Media), was published in September 2010 and her second book, Relational Mindfulness: A Handbook for Deepening Our Connection with Ourselves, Each Other, and the Planet, was published by Wisdom Publications in May 2018. Her newest book, Luminous Darkness: An Engaged Buddhist Approach to Embracing the Unknown , was released by Shambhala Publications in 2022.

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com, and check out the upcoming Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training along with many other wonderful offerings.

Ep. 94 - America Burnout: The 2024 US Election and The Three Aspects of Compassion Jan 23, 2024

Ethan gives his "hot takes" as an active participant and casual observer of American politics on the severely compromised state of American democracy. He addresses the idea that we are all burnt out on America, and discusses the three aspects of compassionate action, and why, for the benefit of ourselves and others, getting off our screens and into simple participatory action is key.

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Also, check out Dhar ma Moon's upcoming free event: Meditation and Beginner's Mind with David Nichtern and Duncan Trussell.

For an easily downloadable, self-paced video course to establish a mindfulness meditation practice, check out Foundations of Mindfulness.

Ep. 93 - Dharma Dads, Courage, Curiosity and a World in Crisis with Oren Jay Sofer Jan 16, 2024

Ethan is joined by author, teacher, Nonviolent Communication trainer and Somatic Experiencing practitioner Oren Jay Sofer. They discuss being "dharma dads," not having enough time to practice meditation with a kid, how to make classic teachings modern, Oren's new book Your Heart Was Made For This, and Oren's complex experience of being a Jewish and Buddhist American in the wake of the atrocities in Palestine and Israel.

Oren has practiced meditation in the early Buddhist tradition since 1997, beginning his studies in Bodh Gaya, India with Anagarika Munindra and Godwin Samararatne. He is a long-time student of Joseph Goldstein, Michele McDonald, and Ajahn Sucitto, and a graduate of the IMS - Spirit Rock Vipassana Teacher Training, and current member of the Spirit Rock Teachers Council.

Oren is the author of Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication, a practical guidebook for having more effective, satisfying conversations. He is also co-author of two books on teaching mindfulness to teens and adolescents: The Mindful Schools Curriculum for Adolescents and Teaching Mindfulness to Empower Teens. His latest book is called, Your Heart Was Made for This: Contemplative Practices to Meet a World in Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com, and check out the Yearlong Buddhist Studies Program with Ethan and an amazing faculty!

Ep. 92 - Right Livelihood, Enoughness, Capitalism and Buddhism with Shelly Tygielski Jan 10, 2024

Ethan is joined by friend, author, meditation teacher, and mutual aid activist Shelly Tygielski. They discuss the grind of modern work life, the experience of Enoughness, alternative economic models and the power of mutual aid.

Shelly runs a popular Instagram feed, @mindfulskatergirl. As a philanthropist and social activist, Shelly Tygielski has been hailed by individuals ranging from President Joe Biden to Arianna Huffington and Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn to Maria Shriver. She is the founder of the global, grassroots mutual aid organization, Pandemic of Love. Her work has been featured in over 100 media outlets, including CNN Heroes, The Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS This Morning, the New York Times and Washington Post. She is the Executive Producer and co-host, of the television show "All Hands on Deck." Shelly is a trauma-informed mindfulness teacher and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Philanthropic Leadership from Indiana University's Lilly School of Philanthropy. For more info on Shelly, visit

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Also, check out the New Year's Eve Intention Setting Gathering and Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies program

Ep. 91 - Crucial Questions: Buddhism and God? Jan 04, 2024

Ethan discusses the question of "God" from a Buddhist perspective, examining the ideas of theism, atheism, and non-theism. He delves into ways the concepts of God, gods, and goddesses are already relevant to Buddhist thought, and also talks about the salvation that does and doesn't happen at a Taylor Swift concert.

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Also, check out the upcoming free online lecture (Jan 9): Right Livelihood - What Buddhism Can Learn From Capitalism and Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies program (starts Jan 23rd).

For an easily downloadable, self-paced video course to establish a mindfulness meditation practice, check out Foundations of Mindfulness.

Ep. 90 - Quitter's Day: Resolution, Intention and Aspiration Dec 30, 2023

Ethan discusses the difference between resolution, intention and aspiration as we head into the New Year, along with the wellness phenomenon of "Quitter's Day."

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Also, check out the upcoming free online lecture: Right Livelihood - What Buddhism Can Learn From Capitalism and Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies program .

For an easily downloadable, self-paced video course to establish a mindfulness meditation practice, check out Foundations of Mindfulness.

Ep. 89 - The Astrology of 2024 (What the ---- is Going On??!!) with Juliana McCarthy Dec 26, 2023

Ethan is joined by friend, bestselling author, dharma practitioner and astrologer Juliana McCarthy. They discuss the odd scientific precision of astrology and this moment in astrological history, which McCarthy calls arguably "the most significant astrological moment in human history."

Juliana runs a popular Instagram feed, @etherealculture. She gives talks regularly and leads various workshops and retreats. If you're interested in online talks, videos, and class, visit her Patreon page here. She also wrote a book called, The Stars Within You: A Modern Guide to Astrology, published by Roost Books and distributed by Penguin Random House. Learn more about it here.

For more info on Ethan visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Also, check out the New Year's Eve Intention Setting Gathering and Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies program

Ep. 88 - Sharon Salzberg - Finding Stability in an Unstable World Dec 20, 2023

In this episode, Ethan talks with his friend, mentor and teacher Sharon Salzberg about the power of studying Buddhism within a supportive community for working with one's mind and other's effectively and compassionately at a time of turmoil. Ethan also presents a deep overview of Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies Program which begins on Tuesday, Jan 23, 2024.

For more info visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com. For more info on Sharon Salzberg, please visit SharonSalzberg.com

Ep. 87 - 2023 "Wrapped" - Contemplating and Reflecting on The Year Dec 15, 2023

In this episode, Ethan discusses the importance of reflecting in meditation on the past (the past year, in this case) as a means of working with our karma or habitual patterns before we set resolutions or intentions for the time ahead. He also wonders, as a parent, how so many Encanto and Taylor Swift songs made it onto his streaming service playlists for the year in review.

For more info visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com.

Ep. 86 - DRAIN Meditation and Coping Skills For The Apocalypse with Lou Sharma Dec 11, 2023

Ethan is joined by friend and Yearlong Buddhist Studies teaching colleague Lou Sharma to discuss her funny pandemic invention called DRAIN meditation, the pros and cons of the strategies we employ to deal with ourselves when the world is on fire, and the pitfalls of corporate life and trying to teach both mindfulness and ethics in the corporate world. For more info visit EthanNichtern.com and DharmaMoon.com

Lou Sharma is a meditation teacher and brand strategy consultant based in Charlotte, NC. She has practiced meditation for over 15 years, and studied Buddhism within Tibetan Buddhist traditions, including the Magyu lineage of Lama Tsultrim Allione. She is a graduate of Dharma Moon's Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training and she is also part of the teaching faculty for Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies program

Ep. 85 - Is Dialogue Even Possible? Dec 05, 2023

In this relaunch of the podcast, Ethan explores the dangers of trying to have emotional conversations in algorithm-driven online spaces, and explores the relationship between perception, emotion, and concepts when we try to listen to ourselves, listen to each other, and hold space for the atrocities of the world. Visit http://ethannichtern.com for more info and visit http://dharmamoon.com for online programs, free events, meditation teacher trainings, and to here more about the Yearlong Buddhist Studies Program.

Ep. 84 - Keep It Simple Jan 24, 2023

Discussing the dharma of politics, Ethan Nichtern delves into the creation of suffering and shifting into a more intentional era in 2023.

Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenow

Registration is almost closed for Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies Info Session with Ethan Nichtern ET: Learn More

"I like the teachings within the complexity that bring us back to simplicity because when life gets going and your to-do list gets long, it's just those little reminders that pierce the speed of the day. — Ethan Nichtern

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Ep. 83 – Communication and Community with David Nichtern Dec 15, 2022

Ethan Nichtern welcomes David Nichtern back to the show for an extremely moist conversation around communication, community, interdependence, aging, and much more.

David Nichtern is the Founder of Dharma Moon and the host of the Creativity, Spirituality & Making a Buck podcast on Be Here Now Network.

Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenow

Register now for Dharma Moon's Yearlong Buddhist Studies Info Session with Ethan Nichtern on December 20th from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm ET

"When there's good communication, you build community. It's no accident those two words have the same root. You're communing." – David Nichtern

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Ep. 82 – The Heart of Who We Are with Caverly Morgan Nov 22, 2022

Exploring relativity and ultimate truth, Ethan Nichtern and Author Caverly Morgan discuss reconciling what we learn in our practice with the noise of the world.

Caverly Morgan is a meditation teacher, author, speaker, and nonprofit founder. She is the founder and Lead Contemplative of Peace in Schools—a nonprofit which created the nation's first for-credit mindfulness class in public high schools. She is also the founder of Presence Collective, a community of cross-cultural contemplatives committed to personal and collective transformation, creating spaces for wisdom exchange and belonging. Caverly is the author of A Kid's Book About Mindfulness. Her new book for adults, The Heart of Who We Are: Realizing Freedom Together, will be released through Sounds True November 29th and is now available for pre-order.

"I knew intuitively that the relative experience of reality was not separate from the absolute and that I longed for a pathway that could allow me to articulate how that is so." – Caverly Morgan

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Ep. 81 – How a Control Freak Lets Go Oct 24, 2022

On the cusp of crucial midterm elections in America, Ethan Nichtern talks about finding the middle path between complacency and being a control freak, and why we need to let go of attachment to outcomes.

"The control freak knows how to show up, but they don't know how to let go. The complacent person knows how to let go, but they don't know how to show up. And what we're really talking about is showing up, then letting go of outcome." – Ethan Nichtern

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Ep. 80 - Crucial Questions: Reincarnation Sep 27, 2022

Explore reincarnation with Ethan Nichtern in this philosophically charged episode of The Road Home Podcast!

"Consciousness is bigger than just this one finite lifetime in this biochemical human body." – Ethan Nichtern

Ep. 79 - The Buddhist Enneagram w/ Susan Piver Sep 14, 2022

This week on The Road Home Podcast, Ethan Nichtern discusses the intersection of Buddhism and enneagrams with internationally renowned meditation teacher and author, Susan Piver.

Susan Piver has an international reputation as an exceptionally skillful meditation teacher. She teaches workshops and speaks on mindfulness, innovation, communication, relationships, and creativity. Susan has been a student of Buddhism since 1995, graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004, and was authorized to teach meditation in 2005. In 2012, she founded The Open Heart Project, the world's largest online-only meditation center. Susan is also a New York Times bestselling author.

Her newest book is The Buddhist Enneagram: Nine Paths to Warriorship. You can keep up with Susan on Instagram and Twitter.

Support podcasts like this through the Be Here Now Network 6th-Anniversary Fundraiser Drive - win tickets to the Ram Dass Legacy retreat in Maui, shop limited edition BHNNxBrunofsky merch and more: beherenownetwork.com/fundraiser

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Ep. 78 - Despair & Media: A Buddhist Perspective Jul 22, 2022

This time on The Road Home Podcast, Ethan Nichtern explores the relationship between despair and media and offers a reflection on ways we can mindfully consume social media.

"There is this constant stream of drama news. And it's not about policy and it's not about what can we do about stuff. It's about the drama of a world in the dramatized darkness." – Ethan Nichtern

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Ep. 77 – In Defense of Choice, Interbeing & Democracy Jul 06, 2022

On the heels of the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision, Ethan shares on women's rights, pro-choice vs pro-life, interdependence and interbeing, fascism, neutrality, and community. Taking an honest look at politics, he offers Buddhist ethical perspectives on how to deal with injustice and fear, process our trauma, and find small functional ways to help.

"The tension of this path in a time of great upheaval is to engage on an interpersonal, social, and political level while still also working with our own minds." – Ethan Nichtern

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Ep. 76 - American Detox: The Myth of Wellness w/ Kerri Kelly Jun 24, 2022

Ethan Nichtern welcomes author, Kerri Kelly, onto The Road Home to chat about wellness after tragedy and her new book, American Detox.

Kerri Kelly is the founder of CTZNWELL, a movement that is democratizing well-being for all. Kerri is a descendant of generations of firemen and first responders and has dedicated her life to kicking down doors and fighting for justice. She's been teaching yoga for over 20 years and is known for making waves in the wellness industry. She challenges norms, disrupts systems, and mobilizes people to act. You can preorder her forthcoming book, American Detox: The Myth of Wellness and How We Can Truly Heal.

"When folks start to realize that they're actually not well, that our well being is really limited by the structures and the conditions that we are a part of and that often we are participating, then I think people are going to realize that they have skin in the game." – Kerri Kelly

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Ep. 75 – The Assault Rifle & the Lotus w/ Shannon Watts Jun 13, 2022

In the wake of the recent gun violence tragedies in America, social activist Shannon Watts rejoins the podcast for a conversation on what we can do to prevent gun violence.

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Shannon Watts, a mother of five, social activist, and Buddhist practitioner; is the founder of Moms Demand Action, a leading force for gun violence prevention, and is an active board member of Emerge America and Rise to Run, two of the nation's leading organizations for recruiting and training women to run for office. Watts is a contributor to The Huffington Post and Medium, and her writing has appeared in Vogue, Time, and The Washington Post. Shannon recently authored, Fight Like a Mother: How a Grassroots Movement Took on the Gun Lobby and Why Women Will Change the World.

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Ep. 74 – Overcoming Individualism May 27, 2022

This week on The Road Home Podcast, spend some one-on-one time with Ethan Nichtern as he discusses worldview and overcoming individualism.

Explore the intersection of Buddhism & Bhakti with Be Here Now Network teachers and guests at the inaugural Love Serve Remember Summer Mountain Retreat August 25th – 29th in Boone, NC!

"What begins to move us in another direction is the realization that nothing that we do actually comes from ourselves alone. There is nothing that we could actually take full credit for." – Ethan Nichtern

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Ep. 73 – Dharma, Art & The Five Wisdoms with Kevin Townley Jr. May 13, 2022

Buddhist renaissance man, Kevin Townley Jr, joins Ethan Nichtern for a conversation spanning the potent intersection of art and Dharma.

Kevin Townley is a writer, filmmaker, actor, singer, museum guide, Buddhist teacher, and meditation instructor trained in the Sokuko-Ji Zen community under Kyoun Sokuzan. His film and television work includes appearances in My Super Ex-Girlfriend, Men in Black 3, The Detour, and Law & Order. With his band, Bambï, Townley adapted Judith Rossner's 'Looking for Mr. Goodbar' into the rock opera GOODBAR, performed at The Public Theater. Check out his new book Look, Look, Look, Look, Look Again: Buddhist Wisdom Reflected in 26 Artists. For more info, please visit KevinTownley.nyc and his Linktree

Explore the intersection of Buddhism & Bhakti with Be Here Now Network teachers and guests at the inaugural Love Serve Remember Summer Mountain Retreat August 25th – 29th in Boone, NC!

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Ep. 72 – Zen Practice and Collective Ceremonies w/ Osho Zenju Earthlyn Manuel Apr 29, 2022

This week on The Road Home Podcast we hear from Ethan Nichtern and Osho Zenju Earthlyn Manuel. They discuss the overlap of science and spirit, the systems that oppress us, and the importance of ceremonies.

Osho Zenju Earthlyn Manuel is a poet, author, ordained Zen priest, and medicine woman of the drum. She is the dharma heir of Buddha and the late Zenkei Blanche Hartman in the Shunryu Suzuki Roshi lineage through the San Francisco Zen Center. Osho Zenju's practice is influenced by Native American and African indigenous traditions. She holds a Ph.D. and worked for decades as a social science researcher, a development director for non-profit organizations and those serving women and girls, cultural arts, and mental health.

Explore the intersection of Buddhism & Bhakti at the inaugural Love Serve Remember Summer Mountain Retreat August 25th - 29th in Boone, NC!

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Ep. 71 — Finding a Teacher, Becoming a Teacher Apr 16, 2022

This time on The Road Home, we learn about the ethics and roles of spiritual teachers. Ethan Nichtern shares his wisdom on how we can empower both teachers and students through mutual consent and clarity of roles.

Practice with Ethan at the Garrison Institute in-person silent meditation retreat: https://www.garrisoninstitute.org/event/in-person-becoming-bodhisattvas-a-silent-meditation-retreat-with-ethan-nichtern/

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Ep. 70 – Ancestor Trouble with Maud Newton Apr 01, 2022

Ethan Nichtern and Maud Newton discuss personal and collective origin stories, and how ancestral spirituality can help us heal generational trauma.

Maud Newton is a writer and critic. She has written personal essays, cultural criticism, and fiction. Maud was born in Dallas, grew up in Miami, and graduated from the University of Florida with degrees in English and law. Eventually, she moved to Brooklyn, and for the past five years, she's lived on Lenape Land in Queens. She started blogging in 2002 with the aim of finding others who were passionate about books, culture, and politics, and establishing an informal place to write about her life and family. Ancestor Trouble: A Reckoning and a Reconciliation (Random House, March 29, 2022), her first book, has been named one of Esquire's best books of 2022.

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Ep. 69 - Grief, Heartbreak, and the Pandemic w/ Heather Coleman Mar 18, 2022

Ethan Nichtern and Heather Coleman have a discussion on the many forms of grief and what healing may look like.

Heather Coleman, LCSW has been providing Buddhist-informed psychotherapy in New York City for the past 15 years in various settings, including outpatient care and private practice. She has provided quality and compassionate care to New Yorkers struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma (and now Covid related trauma!), relationship & codependency issues, health concerns, parenting and life transitions. Her main specialty is working with Adult Children of Alcoholics and those from dysfunctional family systems (with narcissistic parents or those with mental illness).

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Ep. 68 – Conflict and Conflict Avoidance Mar 04, 2022

Uprooting conflict avoidance as a primary spiritual obstacle in modern times, Ethan Nichtern navigates from false neutrality to loving conflict.

Diving back in for another focused and flowing solo-cast applying Buddhist themes to the modern zeitgeist, Ethan Nichtern explores the all-too-pertinent topics of conflict and conflict avoidance. Using the current state of the world as an easy case-study, he shares how we can move away from present-day spirituality's harmful habits of avoidance and false neutrality, to instead engage in mindfully chosen participation and loving conflict based in truth and compassion.

To learn more about Ethan & uncover a myriad of Buddhist offerings, please visit EthanNichtern.com

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Ep. 67 – Doing Small Things: The Dharma of Lego Feb 17, 2022

In this episode of The Road Home, Ethan Nichtern explores the dharma of Lego and how doing small things can help with the often insurmountable feeling of being overwhelmed by the world.

Get more Buddhist wisdom from Ethan at ethannichtern.com

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Ep. 66 – Imagination, Meditation, & Fatherhood w/ Jaimal Yogis Jan 26, 2022

Jaimal Yogis and Ethan Nichtern ride the waves of meditation and imagination, in a discussion on surfing, creativity, graphic novels, and fatherhood.

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Jaimal Yogis is a bestselling author, teacher, and surfer, who recently released City of Dragons: The Awakening Storm– a Dharma-focused middle-grade Scholastic graphic novel series with illustrator, Vivian Truong. He also wrote Saltwater Buddha & All Our Waves Are Water– merging his passions of zen and surfing. Jaimal has published award-winning journalism in The Washington Post, ESPN Magazine, The Atlantic, and more. He currently resides in San Fransisco with his wife and three boys.

Sign up for Ethan's Year-Long Buddhist Studies program for 2022 on David Nichtern's digital mindfulness platform, Dharma Moon

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Ep. 65 – The Dharma of Screenwriting with AJ Marechal Jan 05, 2022

Ethan welcomes screenwriter and Dharma practitioner AJ Marechal to talk about the dharma of screenwriting, writing characters from a dharmic perspective, and what it's like to be Ethan's student.

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Ep. 64 – Every Moment is the New Year Dec 22, 2021

In this special year-end episode of The Road Home, Ethan Nichtern uproots our self-aggressive New Year's Resolutions, replacing them with reflections on interdependence and collective wellbeing.

Sign up for Ethan's Year Long Buddhist Studies program for 2022 on David Nichtern's digital mindfulness platform, Dharma Moon

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Ep. 63 – A Queer Dharma with Jacoby Ballard Dec 15, 2021

In this episode of The Road Home, Ethan Nichtern speaks with Jacoby Ballard about his book, A Queer Dharma, as well as dealing with microaggressions and overcoming the gender binary.

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Jacoby Ballard is a social justice educator and yoga teacher who leads workshops and trainings around the country on diversity, equity, and inclusion. In 2008, Jacoby co-founded Third Root Community Health Center in Brooklyn to work at the nexus of healing and social justice. Since 2006, Jacoby has taught Queer and Trans Yoga, a space for queer folks to unfurl and cultivate resilience. His first book, A Queer Dharma: Yoga and Meditations for Liberation is now available. Learn more at jacobyballard.net.

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Ep. 62 – Sit Down to Rise Up w/ Shelly Tygielski Nov 23, 2021

Ethan Nichtern talks with Shelly Tygielski about her new book, Sit Down to Rise Up, and the incredible work being done by her mutual aid organization, Pandemic of Love.

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Shelly Tygielski is a trauma-informed mindfulness teacher, self-care activist, and the founder of the global grassroots mutual aid organization Pandemic of Love. Her work has been featured by over one hundred media outlets, including CNN Heroes. Shelly's new book, Sit Down to Rise Up: How Radical Self-Care Can Change the World, is now available. Learn more about her work at shellytygielski.com.

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Ep. 61 - Taking Refuge Nov 09, 2021

In this special dharma talk, Ethan Nichtern illuminates the importance and meaning of taking refuge in the Three Jewels – the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.

This episode of The Road Home Podcast is from a recent lecture Ethan Nichtern gave to a group of students about to take their Buddhist Refuge Vows, which is the formal step of a student entering the Buddhist path.

Visit ethannichtern.com for more information on how you can step onto the path and enter the yearlong study program for 2022.

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Ep. 60 – Time Management for Mortals w/ Oliver Burkeman Oct 20, 2021

Ethan Nichtern speaks with Oliver Burkeman about his new book, Four Thousand Weeks, and how a constant emphasis on productivity prevents us from being in the present moment.

Oliver Burkeman is the author of The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking. His new book, Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, is now available. Oliver wrote a long-running weekly column on psychology for The Guardian, "This Column Will Change Your Life," and his work has also appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Psychologies, and New Philosopher. Learn more about him at oliverburkeman.com, plus be sure to follow him on Twitter.

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Ep. 59 – Temporal Luminosity with David Nichtern Oct 08, 2021

Buddhist teacher, and Ethan's father, David Nichtern joins to bring the luminous into the temporal in a conversation merging Dharma, money, and mindfulness for the modern age.

David Nichtern is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He was one of the initial American students of renowned meditation master Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche and studied closely with him soon after his arrival in the United States in 1970. Along with being an Emmy-winning, Grammy-nominated composer and musician, David is a business consultant integrating meditation into large companies. He is also Founder & CEO of Dharma Moon – a mindfulness-based education platform and global community; as well as host of the Be Here Now Network podcast Creativity, Spirituality and Making a Buck.

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Ep. 58 – The Book of Form and Emptiness with Ruth Ozeki Sep 22, 2021

Ethan Nichtern and Ruth Ozeki discuss her new novel, The Book of Form and Emptiness, the similarities between writing and meditation, and how to perceive the voices of the object world.

Ruth Ozeki is a novelist, filmmaker, and Zen Buddhist priest. She is the award-winning author of four novels, The Book of Form and Emptiness, My Year of Meats, All Over Creation, and A Tale for the Time Being, which was a finalist for the 2013 Booker Prize. Her nonfiction work includes a memoir, The Face: A Time Code, and the documentary film, Halving the Bones, which was screened at Sundance and on public television. Ruth is affiliated with the Brooklyn Zen Center and the Everyday Zen Foundation. She teaches creative writing at Smith College, where she is the Grace Jarcho Ross 1933 Professor of Humanities. Learn more about her at ruthozeki.com.

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Ep. 57 – Radical Friendship with Kate Johnson Sep 07, 2021

Ethan Nichtern welcomes back Kate Johnson for a conversation around ways that the Buddha's teachings on friendship offer the potential for personal and communal transformation.

Kate Johnson is a meditation teacher, facilitator, and author of Radical Friendship: Seven Ways to Love Yourself and Find Your People in an Unjust World. She teaches classes and retreats integrating Buddhist meditation, somatics, social justice and creativity at Spirit Rock Meditation Center, the Kripalu Center, the Omega Institute, the Rubin Museum NYC, and the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia. Kate also works as a culture change consultant, partnering with organizations to help them achieve greater equity and sustainability in their inner and outer work. Learn more about her at katejohnson.com.

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Ep. 56 – Unwinding Anxiety with Dr. Judson Brewer Apr 14, 2021

Dr. Judson Brewer joins Ethan in an uplifting conversation on unwinding anxiety, illustrating how to break cycles of fear, uncertainty, and worry in order to heal our minds.

Neuroscientist, psychiatrist, and bestselling author, Judson Brewer MD PhD—affectionately, Dr. Jud—is the Director of Research and Innovation at the Mindfulness Center and associate professor in psychiatry at the School of Medicine at Brown University, as well as a research affiliate at MIT. Before that, he held research and teaching positions at Yale University and the University of Massachusetts' Center for Mindfulness. He recently published his New York Times Bestseller: Unwinding Anxiety: New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind. For more info please visit DrJud.com

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Ep. 55 – The Rebirth of What? Mar 29, 2021

With springtime in bloom, Ethan Nichtern offers a mindful optimism for thawing this bardo, nourishing the soil for rebirth. The question is: Rebirth of What?

In this special solo episode of The Road Home, Ethan Nichtern builds from a podcast released this past January, Into the Bardo: What Happens Now, which illuminated the painful collective gap experienced this past winter in regards to coronavirus, politics, uncertainty, and fear. As spring thaws away the ice, moods shift, politics hopefully become less volatile, and vaccines begin to roll out, Ethan shares a cautiously optimistic sentiment, exploring the metaphor of spring through the Buddhist lens of rebirth, investigating the very direct question: the rebirth of what?

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Ep. 54 – Postmodern Buddhism with Ann Gleig Feb 16, 2021

On this episode of The Road Home, Ann Gleig joins Ethan Nichtern for a conversation about her book, American Dharma, and the state of postmodern Buddhism in the Western world.

Ann Gleig is an associate professor of religion and cultural studies at the University of Central Florida. She is the author of American Dharma: Buddhism Beyond Modernity

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Ep. 53 – Be the Refuge with Chenxing Han Feb 02, 2021

Writer, Chenxing Han, joins Ethan to discuss the intersection of race and privilege within Western Buddhism, focusing on giving voice to the Asian American Buddhist minority.

Chenxing Han is a Bay Area–based writer whose publications have appeared in Buddhadharma, Journal of Global Buddhism, Lion's Roar, Pacific World, Tricycle, and elsewhere. She holds a BA from Stanford University and an MA in Buddhist studies from the Graduate Theological Union. After studying chaplaincy at the Institute of Buddhist Studies in Berkeley, California she worked in spiritual care at a nearby community hospital in Oakland. Her first book, Be the Refuge: Raising the Voices of Asian American Buddhists, was published by North Atlantic Books in January 2021.

This episode is dedicated to Chenxing's friend and inspiring fellow crusader in Buddhism and race relations; the late, great, Angry Asian Buddhist, Aaron J. Lee:

"The real issue for young Buddhists in the Asian-American community is that there are very few Buddhist communities that they can go to without having to suppress part of their identity." – Aaron J. Lee

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Ep. 52 – The Dharma of Fascism Jan 18, 2021

Through the lenses of dharma & collective karma, Ethan Nichtern explores the polarizing political climate & extremism that stoked the January 6th, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

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Ep. 51 – Energetic Shapeshifting with Sarah Jones Jan 04, 2021

Performer Sarah Jones joins Ethan to discuss how her empowered multicultural cross-section of meditation, comedy, & social justice creates such entertainingly potent political activism.

Sarah is a Tony® Award-winning performer, writer, comedian and activist. Called "a master of the genre" by The New York Times, Sarah is known for her multi-character, one-person shows, including Broadway hit Bridge & Tunnel, and the critically-acclaimed show Sell/Buy/Date. She has given multiple main-stage TED Talks garnering millions of views and performed for President and First Lady Obama at the White House. Sarah recently launched Foment Productions, a social justice-focused entertainment company aligned with her progressive, intersectional activism. She has appeared in film and TV projects ranging from Sesame Street to Marriage Story, and she will next be seen in an upcoming Netflix dramedy series, On the Verge. Learn more about Sarah's work at sarahjonesonline.com

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Ep. 50 – In The Bardo: What Happens Now Dec 07, 2020

Exploring 2020 through the lens of the Tibetan bardos, Ethan Nichtern illuminates the awareness and aspiration involved in integrating the personal, interpersonal, and collective levels of our being.

Returning from a short hiatus, Ethan Nichtern begins the show by sharing rawly about his struggle with seizures at the hands of his recently diagnosed epilepsy. Offering compassion for anyone effected by illness right now, he explains his personal healing journey, before zooming out to the pressing global issue of the surging coronavirus pandemic. Touching on both the gross and acute trauma created through this pandemic, Ethan invites us to step into the bardo, and ask, "What happens now?"

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Ep. 49 – A Call for Connection with Sebene Selassie Oct 13, 2020

Dharma teacher Sebene Selassie returns to The Road Home for a conversation about her new book, and why we all need to respond to the call for connection.

Sebene Selassie has studied Buddhism for over thirty years. She received a BA from McGill University in religious and women's studies and an MA from the New School, where she focused on cultural studies and race. For over twenty years, Sebene worked with children, youth, and families nationally and internationally for small and large not-for-profits.

Sebene lives on unceded Lenape Territory in Brooklyn, NY. Her work has taken her everywhere from the Tenderloin in San Francisco to refugee camps in Guinea, West Africa. She has been teaching meditation workshops, courses, and retreats for over a decade and is one of the most popular teachers on the Ten Percent Happier app. Her first book, "You Belong: A Call for Connection" was published by HarperOne in August. Learn more about Sebene's offerings at sebeneselassie.com.

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Ep. 48 – Moms Demand Action with Shannon Watts Sep 29, 2020

Through a Buddhist lens, Shannon Watts and Ethan discuss harnessing the ancient and cultural power of motherhood to enact change in 2020.

Shannon Watts, a mother of five, social activist, and Buddhist practitioner; is the founder of Moms Demand Action, a leading force for gun violence prevention, and is an active board member of Emerge America and Rise to Run, two of the nation's leading organizations for recruiting and training women to run for office. Watts is a contributor to The Huffington Post and Medium, and her writing has appeared in Vogue, Time, and The Washington Post. Shannon recently authored, Fight Like a Mother: How a Grassroots Movement Took on the Gun Lobby and Why Women Will Change the World.

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Ep. 47 – Don't Tell Me To Relax with Ralph De La Rosa Sep 15, 2020

Ralph De La Rosa joins Ethan to talk Western psychology meeting Buddha Nature, mindfulness as psychic survival, and normalizing dharmic rage.

Ralph De La Rosa, LCSW, is an author, psychotherapist, meditation teacher, Buddhist philosopher, and student of Amma. He leads healing retreats at Omega Institute, Spirit Rock, and Kripalu, and his work has been featured in the New York Post, CNN, GQ, SELF, Women's Health, and many more. For information on Ralph's ongoing work and his new book, Don't Tell Me to Relax: Emotional Resilience in the Age of Rage, Feels, and Freak Outs, head over to ralphdelarosa.com

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Ep. 46 – The Union of Politics and Spirituality with Reggie Hubbard Sep 01, 2020

Committed yogi and political strategist Reggie Hubbard joins Ethan Nichtern for a conversation about the union of politics and spirituality, and the sacred importance of voting.

Reggie Hubbard is currently a senior political strategist for MoveOn, managing their relationships, impact and communications with Capitol Hill. He has previously worked on presidential campaigns for John Kerry and Bernie Sanders. In addition to his political work, Reggie is a certified yoga teacher who has taught members of Congress, sharing techniques for growing peace and ease as a foundation, not an afterthought. Learn more about Reggie at activepeaceyoga.com and follow him on Instagram.

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Ep. 45 – A Path to Refuge, with Sharon Salzberg Aug 21, 2020

In this shared Dharma talk, Ethan Nichtern and Sharon Salzberg share insight and practices for taking refuge in the Three Jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.

Sharon Salzberg is the host of the Metta Hour podcast. Her newest book, Real Change: Mindfulness to Heal Ourselves and the World is now available for pre-order. Learn more about Sharon at sharonsalzberg.com.

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Ep. 44 - Fierce Feminine Buddhism with Pamela Weiss Aug 04, 2020

Author Pamela Weiss joins Ethan Nichtern for a conversation about fierce feminine Buddhism, patriarchy in spiritual traditions, and what it means to be a lay practitioner in the world.

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Ep. 43 – What Comes After Shambhala? Jul 21, 2020

Ethan brings back guests Aarti Tejuja, Dr. Shanté Paradigm Smalls and David Perrin to follow up on where they are at nearly two years after the Shambhala community was transformed by scandal and an opportunity for growth.

This is the continuation of a conversation held in November of 2018 (Episode 7) around the impact that allegations against Shambhala leader Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche had on themselves and their community.

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Ep. 42 – We White Men Have a Lot to Learn w/ Oren Jay Sofer Jun 23, 2020

Mindfulness and meditation teacher Oren Jay Sofer returns to the Road Home Podcast for a conversation with Ethan around what they as white men still have to learn about unseen bias and the roles they play in systemic injustice.

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Ep. 41 - Love and Rage w/ Lama Rod Owens Jun 08, 2020

How can we find the path of liberation through our anger? Lama Rod Owens speaks with Ethan about ways we can work with anger as a healing energy in our practice.

Considered one of the leaders of the next generation of Dharma teachers, Lama Rod Owens has a blend of formal Buddhist training in the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and life experience that gives him a unique ability to understand, relate and engage in a way that's spacious and sincere. He invites you into the cross-sections of his life as a Black, queer male, born and raised in the South and heavily influenced by the church and its community. Learn more about Lama Rod's offerings and upcoming teaching events at lamarod.com.

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Ep. 40 – Mutual Aid Mindfulness with Shelly Tygielski May 25, 2020

Ethan invites Shelly Tygielski to the podcast for a timely conversation surrounding topics pertinent to life in modern times. Ranging from Shelly's meditative beginnings and first meetings with Buddhist teachers like Sharon Salzberg and Robert Thurman, to her decision to quit her corporate job to find ways to bring mindfulness to her community, this episode of The Road Home explores how we can offer true service through imbibing our authentic self.

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Ep. 39 – Neurodharma with Dr. Rick Hanson May 12, 2020

Rick Hanson, Ph.D., is a psychologist, senior fellow of UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, and New York Times best-selling author. Founder of the Wellspring Institute for Neuroscience and Contemplative Wisdom, he's lectured at NASA, Google, Oxford, and Harvard, and taught in meditation centers worldwide. Learn more about Rick, available courses and his podcast, Being Well, at rickhanson.net.

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Ep. 38 - The Truth of Interconnection with Sharon Salzberg Apr 28, 2020

Sharon Salzberg returns to The Road Home for a conversation with Ethan Nichtern around how the coronavirus pandemic has revealed the truth of interconnection and interdependence.

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Ep. 37 – The Bridge Between Meditation & Music w/ Annie Hart Apr 15, 2020

Songwriter and musician Annie Hart joins Ethan Nichtern for a conversation that touches on the intersection of meditative practice, activism, and music.

Annie Hart is a New York City-based composer, songwriter, and performer. She made her name with David Lynch favorites and Twin Peaks alums, synth trio Au Revoir Simone, and has since branched into a swift-moving solo career. Annie continues to break boundaries by composing music for patient listeners in her own distinctive self-taught style. Her new album, A Softer Offering, explores deep emotional content with a paradoxically lush spareness in sound. Find Annie's music at anniehart.nyc.

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Ep. 36 - Practicing In The World As It Is Mar 31, 2020

On this episode of The Road Home, Ethan Nichtern offers some thoughts on working with anxiety and fear, and how we can continue practicing in the world as it is during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Ep. 35 – Justin Michael Williams Mar 16, 2020

Author, public speaker, and musician Justin Michael Williams visits the Road Home Podcast for a conversation around making mindfulness and meditation relatable and accessible to all people.

From growing up with gunshot holes outside of his bedroom window to sharing the stage with Deepak Chopra, Justin Michael Williams knows the power of healing to overcome. He is an author, top 20 recording artist, and transformational speaker whose work has been featured by The Wall Street Journal, Grammy.com, Yoga Journal, Billboard, Wanderlust, and South by Southwest. With over a decade of teaching experience, Justin has become a pioneering millennial voice for diversity and inclusion in wellness. Learn more at StayWokeGiveBack.com

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Ep. 34 – Evolving Dharma with Jay Michaelson Mar 03, 2020

Ethan Nichtern shares a conversation with author and meditation teacher Jay Michaelson around integrating The Dharma into our modern lives.

Jay Michaelson is a meditation teacher and editor at Ten Percent Happier, a leading meditation platform, and a weekly columnist at the Daily Beast covering religion, the Supreme Court, and LGBTQ issues. Jay has been leading meditation retreats in Buddhist, Jewish, and secular contexts for fifteen years. In addition to this work, Jay is also the author of seven books on contemplative practice; including his newest release, Enlightenment by Trial and Error. He has a JD from Yale Law School, a PhD in Jewish Thought from Hebrew University, and nondenominational rabbinic ordination. Find articles and conversations with Jay that touch on a variety of topics at jaymichaelson.net.

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Ep. 33 - Enlightenment in Action with Steve Silberman Feb 18, 2020

Writer and meditation practitioner Steve Silberman joins Ethan Nichtern on The Road Home Podcast for a conversation that touches on turning our imperfections and the challenges we face into fuel for our Dharmic growth.

Steve Silberman is an American writer based in San Francisco, California. Silberman is best known as the author of NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity, which became a New York Times bestseller and was awarded the 2015 Samuel Johnson Prize. His next book, The Taste of Salt, will be a history of cystic fibrosis. Silberman's article "The Placebo Problem" won the AAAS "Kavli Science Journalism Award for Magazine Writing." Silberman's Wired article "The Geek Syndrome", which focused on autism in Silicon Valley, was one of the first articles about autism in the technology industry. Learn more about Steve's work and find insightful articles and blogs from Steve at stevesilberman.com.

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Ep. 32 – Simran Sethi Feb 04, 2020

On this episode of The Road Home, journalist Simran Sethi joins Ethan Nichtern for a conversation about her work with environmentalism and agricultural biodiversity.

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Ep. 31 – Making a Sustainable Meditation Practice Jan 14, 2020

On this episode of The Road Home, Ethan Nichtern talks about making a sustainable meditation practice and overcoming some of the obstacles that can block your progress.

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Ep. 30 – Leadership and the Art of Growing Up with Jerry Colonna Dec 10, 2019

This time on the Road Home Podcast, Ethan Nichtern is joined by leadership coach Jerry Colonna for a conversation around balancing leadership and wealth with the principles of mindfulness and spiritual practice.

Jerry Colonna is the CEO, and co-founder, of Reboot.io, an executive coaching and leadership development firm whose coaches and facilitators are committed to the notion that better humans make better leaders. For nearly 20 years, he has used the knowledge gained as an investor, an executive, and a board member for more than 100 organizations to help entrepreneurs and others to lead with humanity, resilience, and equanimity. Learn more about Jerry's offerings at Reboot.io.

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Ep. 29 – Understanding Racial Conditioning with Ruth King Nov 25, 2019

Dharma teacher and author Ruth King joins Ethan Nichtern for a conversation around diversity in spiritual communities, white privilege and guilt, and understanding racial conditioning.

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Ep. 28 - The Mindfulness Revolution with David Nichtern Nov 13, 2019

Ethan and David share their thoughts on the transformative impact of the Buddhist teachings, especially as the mindfulness revolution continues to become more mainstream.

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Ep. 27 – Healing the Hungry Ghost with Shauna James Ahern Oct 28, 2019

Author Shauna James Ahern joins Ethan for a conversation about finding our worth and healing the hungry ghosts that haunt us.

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Ep. 26 – Amber Scorah Oct 14, 2019

Ethan welcomes author Amber Scorah to The Road Home for a conversation about her exit from the Jehovah's Witnesses, and the 'partial cults' we can all find ourselves trapped in.

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Ep. 25 – Solving the Puzzle with David Nichtern Oct 01, 2019

Ethan welcomes back David Nichtern to the Road Home to talk about creativity, spirituality, and livelihood, and how we can fit together the pieces of our life puzzle.

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Ep. 24 – The Inner Work of Racial Justice with Rhonda Magee Sep 16, 2019

This time on The Road Home Podcast, Rhonda Magee joins Ethan for a conversation about where mindfulness and meditation practices fit into our work in the world, our society and the justice system that governs us.

Rhonda Magee is Professor of Law at the University of San Francisco and is an internationally-recognized thought and practice leader on integrating Mindfulness into Higher Education, Law and Social Justice. Keep up with Rhonda online at rhondavmagee.com.

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Ep. 23 – Cultivating Confidence with Sharon Salzberg Sep 05, 2019

Sharon Salzberg joins Ethan Nichtern for an exploration of the ways we can develop our confidence through the practices of mindfulness and meditation.

Recorded at the Garrison Institute, Sharon and Ethan share insight into the eight vicissitudes from the Buddhist tradition. Looking at how the vicissitudes can help us move away from the traps our ego and walk through life with confidence that comes from clear perspective and skillful action.

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Ep. 22 – Sebene Selassie Aug 12, 2019

Dharma mentor and writer Sebene Selassie joins Ethan for a conversation that touches on engaging with injustice dharmically, the direction of Western Buddhism, and the search for belonging.

Sebene is a dharma teacher, writer, coach, and consultant. She began studying Buddhism over 25 years ago and has an MA from the New School where she focused on race and cultural studies. She is the former Executive Director of New York Insight Meditation Center and is passionate about making the dharma accessible and relevant for our times. Learn more about Sebene's offerings at sebeneselassie.com.

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Ep. 21 – The Dharma of Astrology with Juliana McCarthy Jul 29, 2019

Astrologer Juliana McCarthy joins Ethan for a conversation about the intersection of astrology and Buddhist practice.

For almost twenty years, Juliana McCarthy has been studying and practicing Western Astrology, finding it to be a powerful tool for self-exploration and examining how we relate to others. She loves working with people to help them understand their authentic selves—their complexities, gifts, karma, and life paths. A longtime student of Tibetan Buddhism, Juliana is an avid meditator and spiritual practitioner.

She writes articles for her website, etherealculture.com, and runs a popular Instagram feed by the same name: @etherealculture

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Ep. 20 - Wholehearted with Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison Jul 02, 2019

Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison visits The Road Home Podcast for a conversation about taking a wholehearted approach to our dharma practice.

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Ep. 19 – Say What You Mean with Oren Jay Sofer Jun 17, 2019

Oren Jay Sofer visits the Road Home Podcast for a conversation about integrating our spiritual practices into how we communicate.

Oren Jay Sofer teaches mindfulness, meditation and Nonviolent Communication in both secular and Buddhist contexts. He is a long-time student of Joseph Goldstein, Michele McDonald, and Ajahn Sucitto, and a graduate of the IMS – Spirit Rock Vipasanna Teacher Training.

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Ep. 18 – Peace in Schools with Caverly Morgan Jun 04, 2019

Ethan Nichtern shares a conversation with Caverly Morgan about bringing mindfulness and meditation practices into the education system.

Caverly Morgan is a meditation teacher, nonprofit leader, and visionary, blending the original spirit of Zen with a modern nondual approach. She is the Founder and Guiding Teacher of Peace in Schools, a nonprofit which created the nation's first for-credit mindfulness class in public high schools, and Presence Collective, a community dedicated to igniting personal transformation and collective awakening. Her practice began in 1995 and has included eight years of training in a silent Zen monastery.

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Ep. 17 – Advice Not Given with Dr. Mark Epstein May 21, 2019

This week on The Road Home Podcast, Ethan shares a conversation with Dr. Mark Epstein about the intersection of Western psychotherapy and Buddhist psychology.

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Ep. 16 – Reconnecting Body and Mind with Dan Cayer May 07, 2019

Ethan Nichtern is joined by teacher, writer and speaker Dan Cayer for a conversation about what is possible when we bring the body and mind into balance.

After developing a chronic pain condition, Dan Cayer used to dial a phone with his nose. His return from illness and pain, and his journey of openness and kindness is the subject of his forthcoming book, Don't Get Better. Trained as a meditation and Alexander Technique teacher, Dan regularly leads workshops, retreats, and private consultations in New York City and the Hudson Valley.

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Ep. 15 – David Nichtern Feb 26, 2019

David Nichtern visits The Road Home Podcast for a conversation that explores the evolution of spiritual tradition, practicing in the modern era and balancing spiritual practice with our roles in life.

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Ep. 14 – The Four Noble Truths of Love with Susan Piver Feb 12, 2019

Ethan is joined by author and meditation teacher Susan Piver for a conversation about bringing the wisdom of Buddhist practice into our relationships.

Susan Piver is the New York Times bestselling author of nine books, including her latest book The Four Noble Truths of Love: Buddhist Wisdom for Modern Relationships. Piver has been a practicing Buddhist since 1995 and graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004. She is an internationally acclaimed meditation teacher, known for her ability to translate ancient practices into modern life. Her work has been featured on the Oprah show, TODAY, CNN, and in the New York Times.

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Ep. 13 – Alice Wetterlund Jan 28, 2019

Comedian and actress Alice Wetterlund shares a conversation with Ethan about the intersection between comedy and meditation, the practice of sobriety and cultivating self-awareness.

Alice Wetterlund is a stand-up comedian, improviser and actor originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota. She performs regularly at all the UCBees as well as San Francisco's Punchline, and LA's Largo and The Hollywood Improv as well as festivals and clubs throughout the continent. She currently resides in LA with her two feline sons, Biscuit and Birdie. You can see Alice as Carla Walton on HBO's Silicon Valley, as Kelly Grady in the upcoming People of Earth on TBS, as well as in the feature Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates, coming this summer to theaters.

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Ep. 12 – Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics w/ Dan Harris Jan 15, 2019

Journalist Dan Harris joins Ethan for a conversation about sharing the possibilities of mindfulness practice with skeptics and the secular world.

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Ep. 11 – The Three Levels of Real Change with Sharon Salzberg Jan 03, 2019

Ethan rings in the New Year with old friend and colleague Sharon Salzberg, together they look at the three levels of spiritual practice that allow us to effect real change in the world.

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Ep.10 – Direct Action is the New Kundalini Dec 18, 2018

Ethan is joined by Kerri Kelly, Michael Kink and Charles Khan for a conversation about bringing our personal practice into the realm of direct social action.

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Ep. 9 – Radical Dharma with Rev. angel Kyodo williams Dec 04, 2018

Rev. angel Kyodo williams joins Ethan for a conversation around practicing radical Dharma, waking up to our privilege and bias, and finding opportunity for institutional change in our toxic political climate.

As an ordained Zen sensei, Reverend angel Kyodo williams applies wisdom teaching to social issues and is a leading voice for Transformative Social Change. Both fierce and grounded, she is known for her willingness to both sit with and speak to uncomfortable truths. Find upcoming events, writings and more from Rev. angel at angelkyodowilliams.com.

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Ep. 8 - Mindful Parenting with Dr. Christopher Willard Nov 19, 2018

This time on The Road Home Podcast, psychologist Dr. Christopher Willard shares a conversation with Ethan about how parents and children can wake up together.

Find link and show notes here: https://beherenownetwork.com/ethan-nichtern-the-road-home-ep-8-mindful-parenting-with-dr-christopher-willard/

Dr. Christopher Willard currently teaches at Harvard Medical School and works part-time in private practice as a therapist. He also speaks to medical, mental health and educational professionals and parents nationally and internationally. His first of many books, Child's Mind, was published in 2010 and Chris recently has published Raising Resilience: The Wisdom and Science of Happy Families and Thriving Childrenin 2017. Learn more about Chris's work around the intersection of mindfulness, psychology and childhood development at drchristopherwillard.com.

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Ep. 7 – The Future of Shambhala Nov 05, 2018

Ethan invites Aarti Tejuja, Dr. Shanté Paradigm Smalls and David Perrin to the show for an open discussion of the revelations which have recently transformed the Shambala community and together look forward to where they see the future of Shambala heading.

The group examines the impact which allegations against former Shambala leader Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche of abuse and misconduct has had on themselves and the community. They examine questions of inclusivity, the responsibility of leadership and awareness towards marginalization in Shambala and other spiritual communities. Join these four for an honest reflection of missteps taken and the opportunity for moving forward with greater accountability, transparency and parity among all members of the Sangha.

For a more comprehensive understanding about the allegations against Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche we invite you to read coverage from Tricycle Magazine: Allegations Against Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche and Lions Roar: Misconduct by Leader of Shambhala Community. You can also find Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche's full letter to the Shambala community around the allegations: To the Shambhala Community

If you would like to share your thoughts with Ethan on all that has unfolded or would like to hear more from him on stepping down as Shastri and Ethan's ongoing involvement in the Shambala community, please click here: Stepping Down As "Shastri," Staying For The Shambhala Community

Join Ethan, Shanté, David and Joy Gutierrez at the Shambhala Center of NYC on November 20 at the Weekly Dharma Gathering for a continuation of this conversation about the future of Shambhala.

Find more information and resources here: https://beherenownetwork.com/the-road-home-ep-7-the-future-of-shambhala/

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Ep. 6 – Sharon Salzberg Oct 22, 2018

This time on the Road Home Podcast, Ethan catches up with longtime friend Sharon Salzberg.

Their chat touches on the energy of our current political and social climate, bringing joy into our daily lives and practice, and what is necessary for making real change in the world. Listen to Sharon's bi-weekly Metta Hour Podcast on the Be Here Now Network and keep up with her events at sharonsalzberg.com.

Come visit Ethan and Sharon for a deep conversation affecting positive change in our own lives and in the world, December 14, 2018—December 16, 2018 at the Garrison Institute: Real Change

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Ep. 5 – Roshi Joan Halifax Oct 08, 2018

Roshi Joan Halifax visits Ethan for a chat about the challenges and rewards of service work and the intersection of Dharma and social action.

Find show notes and resources here: https://beherenownetwork.com/road-home-ep-5-roshi-joan/

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Ep. 4 – Dr. Miles Neale Sep 24, 2018

Ethan is joined by Dr. Miles Neale for a conversation about the intersection of Eastern and Western psychology and the challenge of effectively teaching contemplative practices in a way that is accessible to secular audiences.

Find show notes and resources here: https://beherenownetwork.com/the-road-home-ep-4-dr-miles-neale/

Dr. Miles Neale is among the leading voices of the current generation of Buddhist teachers and a forerunner in the emerging field of contemplative psychotherapy. He is a licensed psychotherapist in private practice, international speaker, and faculty member of Tibet House US and Weill Cornell Medical College. Miles is the author of Gradual Awakening: The Tibetan Buddhist Path of Becoming Fully Human along with its audio companion of guided meditations The Gradual Path (Sounds True, 2018), which support the Kopan Nunnery in Nepal. Learn more at milesneale.com.

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Ep. 3 – No Such Thing As A Relationship Expert Sep 10, 2018

Ethan celebrates the release of The Dharma of The Princess Bride on paperback with a reflection on honoring our relationships and bringing our own culture into our spiritual practice.

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Ep. 2 – Kate Johnson Jul 03, 2018

Ethan sits down with Kate Johnson for a conversation around dharmic social action, compassionate communication and practicing different modalities of mindfulness and meditation.

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Ep. 1 - Introducing the Road Home Podcast with Ethan Nichtern Jun 01, 2018

Ethan has his agent, collaborator, and friend Lisa Weinert on the first episode of the show to introduce The Road Home Podcast and what it's all about.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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