ZC 2129: Aligning Purpose and Prosperity with Dean Patrick
Zen Commuter
In today’s episode, I sit down with author and meditator Dean Patrick for a meaningful conversation about meditation, self-care, and redefining what success really means. Dean shares how his own inner practice has shaped his life, and we explore the shift from striving to aligning — from doing to being. We also talk about his latest book, which opens powerful doorways into a more intentional and purpose-driven life: God Money: A thoughtful exploration of purpose, prosperity, and spiritual clarity in a world that often measures worth by accumulation. If you’re ready to rethink...
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ZC 2128 - Meditation, Identity, and the Stories That Shape Us — with Christopher Rivas
Zen Commuter
In this episode, we sit down with multi-hyphenate storyteller Christopher Rivas — actor, writer, Buddhist practitioner, and host of the Brown Enough podcast. We dive deep into themes of identity, race, belonging, and what it means to “live in the middle space.” Christopher shares his journeys into Buddhism, the stories behind his creative work (including Brown Enough and Rubirosa), and how life, art, and spiritual practice intersect for him. ✨ Guest Bio & Links Christopher Rivas is an actor, author, playwright, and podcast host known for exploring issues of race, culture, identity,...
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ZC 2127: Tricycle Week Fall - How to Meditate While Raising Kids
Zen Commuter
Believe it or not, consistency is one of the hardest parts of a meditation practice; setting time each day to sit in stillness. As a single man, it’s easier for me, than say, a parent with young children. However, Tricycle would have you believe it’s still possible for parents to keep up with their practice, as long as they adapt how they meditate. Thankfully, Sumi Loundon Kim has some great ideas about exactly how to adapt your mindfulness practice. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show If this conversation inspired you, please share it using the social media buttons...
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ZC 2126: Tricycle Week - Winter Light: Old age Brings an Intensity of Experience by Douglas Penick
Zen Commuter
While I don’t know the exact demographic of Zen Commuter listeners, I have confidence in saying that many of you are my chronological peers. To that end, today’s article from Tricycle will resonate with you as well. Even though I don’t fully embrace all the sentiments of the article, it did resonate on the major points. What is the obfuscated topic for today? Aging. Come listen. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show If this conversation inspired you, please share it using the social media buttons on the page. Be a part of the show! 🎙 Send me a voice message: ...
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ZC 2125: Tricycle Week: Blind Passions: Seeing What Holds Us Back
Zen Commuter
In this episode of Zen Commuter, I read Mark Unno’s essay “Blind Passions,” a powerful reflection on how unseen desires shape our lives and our practice. Together, we’ll explore how passion can cloud our vision, but also how, when understood, it can become a doorway to deeper awareness and compassion. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show If this conversation inspired you, please share it using the social media buttons on the page. Be a part of the show! 🎙 Send me a voice message: 📧 Email: 📱 Instagram: 🐦 Twitter: 📘 Facebook: Subscribe: | ...
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ZC 2124: Tricycle Week, Autumn Edition - Non-Self Storage by Christopher Rivas
Zen Commuter
While the days have yet to capture that wonderfully crisp Autumn breeze, my mailbox tells me that it is indeed Fall. Well, at least it’s on its way; as evidenced by the latest edition of Tricycle Magazine. Without checking the author first, I selected the article that piqued my interest the most. What a wonderful surprise to know it was a familiar name, Christopher Rivas. He is a writer, actor, podcaster and most importantly, a genuinely kind and loving person. His article about holding on to things (at the least), is a wonderful reminder to rethink how we view collecting. THANKS FOR...
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ZC 2123: Easing a Cancer Journey with Steve Olsen
Zen Commuter
In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Steve Olsen, a retired dentist who shares his powerful journey of healing and resilience. After facing a life-altering cancer diagnosis, Steve turned to meditation and the neuroacoustic app nuCalm as vital tools in his recovery. His story is a testament to the power of inner calm, mindset, and the body’s ability to heal when supported by intention and presence. Whether you're navigating your own health challenges or simply looking to deepen your meditation practice, Steve's experience offers valuable insight and encouragement. Topics Discussed: ...
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ZC 2122: Under Open Skies: How to Meditate Outside
Zen Commuter
In today’s episode of Zen Commuter, we take our practice beyond four walls and into the wide embrace of nature. Meditating outside offers a unique opportunity to reconnect—not just with the present moment, but with the world around us. Whether it’s a quiet park bench, a forest trail, or your own backyard, outdoor meditation invites you to soften your senses, anchor your awareness, and find peace in the rhythm of the natural world. I’ll share how to begin, what to notice, and how to embrace whatever sounds or sensations arise—yes, even the distractions. 🔹 In This Episode, You’ll...
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ZC 2121: Knowing the Voice of Your Higher Self
Zen Commuter
Inside all of us are many voices. Some uplift us, others cast doubt. How can we tell which one is our true guide? Today’s episode helps you learn to distinguish the voice of your higher self from the more reactive inner dialogue. Through body awareness and subtle cues in language, we’ll uncover how to better trust your wisest self. What we’ll cover: Words like “should,” “can’t,” and “always” as markers of inner chatter How your body responds differently to truth vs. fear Meditation as a tuning fork to clarify inner guidance THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan...
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ZC 2120: Mobile Mindfulness Studio: Meditating in Your Car
Zen Commuter
Many people feel like they don’t have time to meditate, especially during a busy commute. But what if that commute became part of your practice? Today on Zen Commuter, we’ll talk about how to use your car as a space for mindfulness. While safety must always be the priority, there are ways to incorporate stillness and presence even while driving. Whether you’re parked or driving, there are ways to become still. What we’ll cover: When it’s safe and not safe to engage in meditative techniques while in your car 3 important things to note when meditating in your parked car Turning...
info_outlineNext week on Zen Commuter, we begin our popular Tricycle Week, a five-episode series where we explore and reflect on selected articles from Tricycle: The Buddhist Review. It’s a listener favorite and a perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the teachings of contemporary Buddhist writers. Today’s episode offers a preview with “The Kamma of Goodwill” by Thanissaro Bhikkhu, first published in 2022. In this thoughtful piece, we explore three key ideas: how goodwill is an intentional and skillful kamma (or action) that shapes our inner and outer world, why true goodwill requires wisdom and discernment rather than blind acceptance, and how developing this quality supports both personal peace and wise engagement with others. Be sure to tune in next week for a full week of insight and inspiration from the pages of Tricycle.
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