Zen Commuter
Zen Commuter is about meditation and how it can improve the quality of your life. Thom Walters speaks with acclaimed meditation teachers, authors and everyday practitioners, to help listeners understand how to start a mindfulness habit, as well as keep it going. Along the way he discusses topics that help listeners cultivate a calmer, wiser and happier life. Come join Thom Monday through Friday to deepen your meditation practice.
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ZC 2143: Discerning the Voices in Your Mind
03/11/2026
ZC 2143: Discerning the Voices in Your Mind
If you sit quietly for even a few moments, you’ll notice that your mind is rarely silent. Thoughts arise, opinions appear, and sometimes it feels like there’s an entire panel discussion happening inside your head. But not every voice carries the same wisdom. In today’s episode, we explore how to discern the difference between ordinary mental chatter and the quieter, steadier voice of deeper understanding—the one that speaks with clarity, compassion, and calm. 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 2142: Tricycle Tuesday - Slow Down, Take Your Seat - A Meditation by Ayya Santacitta
03/03/2026
ZC 2142: Tricycle Tuesday - Slow Down, Take Your Seat - A Meditation by Ayya Santacitta
Hey, my friend. It’s been a while since we have had an actual meditation. So today I thought I would combine the best of two worlds; meditation and Tricycle Tuesday. :0) This one was written by Ayya Santacitta, and is a perfect session for helping us cultivate stillness and the ability to slow down. 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 2140: Journey to Inner Stillness: A Conversation with Manal El Ramly (R)
03/03/2026
ZC 2140: Journey to Inner Stillness: A Conversation with Manal El Ramly (R)
My guest today is Manal El-Ramly, author of Transcending Anxiety: From Fear to Freedom, TEDx speaker ('Why You Don't Need to Search for Your Purpose'), creator of the Mattain Method, and a beloved teacher on Insight Timer. Manal helps individuals overcome anxiety, limiting beliefs, and overwhelm by understanding and aligning their four bodies – physical, emotional, mental, and egoic. What You'll Discover in This Episode: The Four Bodies Cultivating Emotional Intelligence The essence of the Unconditional Three Resources & Mentions: Connect with Manal El-Ramly - Meditation Coaching (Complimentary consultation) THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: Email: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: Donate: Subscribe: | Rate and review us in Apple Podcasts!
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ZC 2139: Tricycle Tueday - Connecting with the Root of Our Being
02/26/2026
ZC 2139: Tricycle Tueday - Connecting with the Root of Our Being
In this episode of Zen Commuter, I share reflections inspired by a recent Tricycle article on connecting with the root of our being. Lately, I’ve been reminded that the places, roles, and things we associate with “home” are only temporary expressions of something much deeper. The real root isn’t somewhere outside of us—it’s the quiet, steady presence that’s always been there, beneath our thoughts, beneath our memories, beneath even our sense of identity. When we take time to pause and reconnect with that part of ourselves, there’s a profound sense of peace and belonging that doesn’t depend on circumstances. Join me as I explore what it means to come home—not to a place, but to the truest part of who we are. 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 2138: Running on Empty? Cool.
02/23/2026
ZC 2138: Running on Empty? Cool.
Many people feel that low energy is something to be conquered. If you’re feeling a little lackluster, something must be off, or wrong. Guess what? I used to think that too. As recently as today. Thankfully, a trip to the cushion set me straight. So let’s learn a lesson together. 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 2137: The Metaphors That Shape Our Lives
02/12/2026
ZC 2137: The Metaphors That Shape Our Lives
Drawing inspiration from a recent Tricycle magazine article, this episode explores the powerful metaphors we unconsciously use to describe our lives—and how they influence the way we suffer, grow, and find freedom. When we examine the stories and images we live by, we discover new ways to relate to challenge, identity, and change. By choosing more liberating metaphors, we loosen old constraints and open to a life lived with greater clarity 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 2136: Why Won’t My Mind Stop Thinking?
02/10/2026
ZC 2136: Why Won’t My Mind Stop Thinking?
One of the most common meditation frustrations is the belief that something is wrong when the mind keeps thinking. In this episode, we gently bust one of the biggest myths about meditation: that a quiet mind is the goal. You’ll learn why thoughts are not a sign of failure, what meditation is actually training us to notice, and how changing your relationship to thinking—not eliminating it—brings ease, confidence, and calm to your practice. 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 2135: Five Ways Meditation Builds Quiet Confidence
01/30/2026
ZC 2135: Five Ways Meditation Builds Quiet Confidence
In today’s episode of Zen Commuter, we explore how meditation naturally builds confidence—not through positive thinking or self-improvement, but through familiarity with ourselves. As we sit and observe the mind, we begin to see thoughts for what they are rather than who we are. Over time, this creates a quiet trust: trust in our ability to stay present, to meet discomfort without being overwhelmed, and to respond instead of react. This episode invites you to see confidence not as something you have to develop, but as something that emerges when you stop trying to be different and learn to rest in who you already are. 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 2134: Meditation Myths - Am I Meditating Right?
01/29/2026
ZC 2134: Meditation Myths - Am I Meditating Right?
It is a new year, meaning there are plenty of people reworking their current practice, or starting one fresh. Regarding both of these groups, it’s going to be helpful to wipe away any misperceptions and myths. To that end, I am going to answer a question I get asked by almost every student I have; Am I meditating right? Stick around to hear the answer. 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 2133: Tricycle Tueday - What is Right Speech by Sensei Dhara Kowal
01/28/2026
ZC 2133: Tricycle Tueday - What is Right Speech by Sensei Dhara Kowal
Hey my good friend, thanks for coming back to another episode of Zen Commuter. Today, upon returning from a hiatus, I thought it would be a perfect day to talk about Right Speech. And the best way to do that is with an article from Tricycle magazine. Sensei Dhara Kowal wrote a perfect article that talks about what tricycle does best; putting ancient context into a modern light. Come listen and learn. 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 2132: The Practice of Staying: Meditation as a Companion in Grief
01/06/2026
ZC 2132: The Practice of Staying: Meditation as a Companion in Grief
As we say farewell to another year, I'm reminded that there are many times in our lives when we must say goodbye. Many of those moments are unplanned, like the loss of a loved one, a dear pet, or even a job. Today, I invite you to join me as I talk about how a meditation practice can help you navigate the losses you experience in your lives. Since grief is such an individual process there's no way I can tell you how to effectively manage it, on or off the cushion. What we will discuss is how the silence and stillness, at times very painful, can help you understand the process as it relates to you. 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 2131: Feeding Your Soul: My Chat with Jen Kalawur (Part 2)
12/12/2025
ZC 2131: Feeding Your Soul: My Chat with Jen Kalawur (Part 2)
Today I continue my warm and wonderful chat with Jen Kalawur. In this segment, we talk about the importance of listening to your intuition when it let’s know what your body and mind truly need. To that end, we also talk about the importance of a healthy diet: not food, but information. And finally, Jen talks about the important work she does in helping her clients see their lives in a fuller, more expansive way. Come Listen. Connect with Jennifer kalawur Website: An incredible guide to help you begin nurturing a loving relationship with yourself. 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 2130: Releasing Family Trauma - A refreshing Talk with Jen Kalawur (Part 1)
12/10/2025
ZC 2130: Releasing Family Trauma - A refreshing Talk with Jen Kalawur (Part 1)
On today’s episode, I sit down with Jennifer Kalawur, a mindful leadership coach whose work blends emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and grounded presence. Together, we explore how mindfulness reshapes the way we lead, communicate, and care for ourselves in a world that often pulls us in every direction. Jennifer shares her own journey, the practices that keep her anchored, and the powerful ways we can bring more clarity and compassion into both our personal and professional lives. If you’ve ever wondered how calm can inform courage — or how awareness can transform connection — this conversation will speak directly to that place within you. Connect with Jennifer kalawur Website: An incredible guide to help you begin nurturing a loving relationship with yourself. 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 2129: Aligning Purpose and Prosperity with Dean Patrick
11/19/2025
ZC 2129: Aligning Purpose and Prosperity with Dean Patrick
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 success, deepen your meditation practice, and reconnect with the values that truly matter, I think you’ll find a lot to love in this conversation. Connect with Dean PatricK Website: Books: • Social: 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 2128 - Meditation, Identity, and the Stories That Shape Us — with Christopher Rivas
10/23/2025
ZC 2128 - Meditation, Identity, and the Stories That Shape Us — with Christopher Rivas
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, and transformation. He hosts the Brown Enough podcast, where he explores what it means to navigate “brownness” in a Black/white world. He also created Rubirosa, a documentary-style story about Porfirio Rubirosa (a Dominican figure many believe inspired James Bond). Key writings in Tricycle Magazine Christopher regularly contributes essays to Tricycle. A few notable ones: Social & Web Links Brown Enough podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | general listing via Podnews YouTube playlist for Brown Enough episodes: Twitter / X: 🔍 Themes & Talking Points from the Episode Here are some of the central topics and takeaways we explore: Integration of spiritual practice & creativity We talk about his meditation journey (16 years and counting), how Buddhist ideas inform his storytelling, and practices that help him stay grounded amid creative turbulence. Storytelling as healing & reimagining narratives Christopher uses storytelling not just as art, but as a bridge to identity, culture, and reconciliation. Attachment, letting go, and identity We unpack his reflections on possessions, ego, attachment, and what does it mean to truly let go (materially and emotionally). 🔗 Links for Listeners & References Christopher Rivas & His Work Official website / podcast hub: christopherrivas.com Brown Enough podcast: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Podnews listing & show info YouTube Brown Enough playlist Twitter / X handle: 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 2127: Tricycle Week Fall - How to Meditate While Raising Kids
09/30/2025
ZC 2127: Tricycle Week Fall - How to Meditate While Raising Kids
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 on the page. Be a part of the show! 🎙 Send me a voice message: 📧 Email: 📱 Instagram: 🐦 Twitter: 📘 Facebook: Subscribe: |
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ZC 2126: Tricycle Week - Winter Light: Old age Brings an Intensity of Experience by Douglas Penick
09/15/2025
ZC 2126: Tricycle Week - Winter Light: Old age Brings an Intensity of Experience by Douglas Penick
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: 📧 Email: 📱 Instagram: 🐦 Twitter: 📘 Facebook: Subscribe: |
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ZC 2125: Tricycle Week: Blind Passions: Seeing What Holds Us Back
09/08/2025
ZC 2125: Tricycle Week: Blind Passions: Seeing What Holds Us Back
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
08/22/2025
ZC 2124: Tricycle Week, Autumn Edition - Non-Self Storage by Christopher Rivas
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 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 2123: Easing a Cancer Journey with Steve Olsen
08/07/2025
ZC 2123: Easing a Cancer Journey with Steve Olsen
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: Discover how meditation became a cornerstone in Steve’s cancer recovery journey Learn about the role nuCalm played in reducing stress and supporting healing Hear Steve’s firsthand perspective on the connection between inner peace and physical resilience Resources and Links: 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 2122: Under Open Skies: How to Meditate Outside
07/15/2025
ZC 2122: Under Open Skies: How to Meditate Outside
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 Learn: Why meditating outside can deepen your connection to presence and peace How to handle common distractions like wind, noise, or movement The best outdoor spaces for different meditation moods and needs A simple grounding practice you can use anywhere—no cushion required How nature becomes both your teacher and your support in stillness 🧘♂️🌿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 2121: Knowing the Voice of Your Higher Self
07/03/2025
ZC 2121: Knowing the Voice of Your Higher Self
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 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 2120: Mobile Mindfulness Studio: Meditating in Your Car
07/01/2025
ZC 2120: Mobile Mindfulness Studio: Meditating in Your Car
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 red lights and traffic into mindfulness bells 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 2119: Divine Flow and Feminine Energy with Lillian Savoie
06/19/2025
ZC 2119: Divine Flow and Feminine Energy with Lillian Savoie
In today’s inspiring episode of Zen Commuter, I sit down with Lillian Savoie, intuitive healer, spiritual teacher, and author of Fill Your Soul the Feminine Way. Together, we explore how tuning into divine feminine energy can help you move from striving to flowing—creating a more peaceful, purposeful life. Lillian shares her journey from corporate stress to spiritual awakening, and how learning to trust her intuition transformed her life. We dive into the wisdom behind balancing masculine and feminine energies, the importance of daily rituals, and how presence and intention can open the door to joy and fulfillment. Whether you're new to energy work or simply curious about a different approach to self-growth, Lillian offers grounded, heartfelt insights that will leave you feeling more connected—to yourself, and to something greater. Topics Discussed: What it means to “fill your soul the feminine way” Letting go of hustle culture and embracing divine flow Lillian’s story of awakening and spiritual surrender How masculine and feminine energies show up in our lives Practical ways to strengthen your intuition Rituals to bring calm and clarity to your day Resources and Links: Lillian Savoie’s book: Fill Your Soul the Feminine Way Lillian’s website: 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 2118: A Family, Maybe: Zen, Identity, and the Stories That Shape Us
06/18/2025
ZC 2118: A Family, Maybe: Zen, Identity, and the Stories That Shape Us
On today’s episode of Zen Commuter, I sit down with Lane Igoudin, author of A Family, Maybe—a beautiful, nuanced memoir about identity, belonging, and the shape-shifting nature of family. Our conversation moves between personal reflection and practical insight, touching on Lane’s writing process, the complexities of chosen family, and how Zen meditation helped guide him through periods of uncertainty and transformation. This isn’t just a conversation about a book—it’s about learning how to sit with life’s open questions with presence, curiosity, and grace. What You’ll Learn: How Zen practice supported Lane’s journey through personal and familial exploration Why uncertainty can be fertile ground for growth How writing itself can be a meditative and healing act Ways to bring awareness and stillness into the storytelling of your own life Resources: Learn more about Lane Igoudan and A Family, Maybe - Looking to deepen your meditation practice? Visit the for resources, retreats, and inspiration. Enjoyed this episode? Share it with someone who’s navigating change—and consider leaving a review to help others find the show. Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary Consultation) 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: | Rate and Review Us in Apple Podcasts: Let me know if you want a pull quote or a short teaser for socials. I'm ready when you are!
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ZC 2117: Tricycle Week: Making Life Your Practice by Ken McLeod
06/17/2025
ZC 2117: Tricycle Week: Making Life Your Practice by Ken McLeod
On Day Five of our special Tricycle Week, we explore the article "Making Life Your Practice" by Ken McLeod—a deeply practical and inspiring reminder that spiritual growth doesn’t just happen on the cushion. This piece reframes our everyday experiences—both the mundane and the messy—as the very terrain of awakening. In today’s episode, I reflect on McLeod’s powerful encouragement to drop the divide between “practice time” and “real life.” Whether we’re standing in line, facing conflict, or simply washing dishes, every moment holds the potential to wake us up. When we bring awareness, presence, and intention to our daily activities, life itself becomes our path. What You’ll Learn: How to dissolve the boundary between meditation and daily life Why ordinary moments can be powerful vehicles for transformation How to bring clarity, compassion, and mindfulness into everything you do Resources: Read the full article at Looking to deepen your meditation practice? Visit the Zen Commuter website for resources, retreats, and inspiration. Enjoyed this episode? Share it with someone who’s ready to bring more presence into their life—and consider leaving a review to help others find the show. (Complimentary consultation) THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: Email: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: Donate: Subscribe: | Rate and review us in Apple Podcasts!
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ZC 2116: Tricycle Week: Knowing the Three Fortresses
06/11/2025
ZC 2116: Tricycle Week: Knowing the Three Fortresses
On Day Four of our special Tricycle Week, we explore the article "Knowing the Three Fortresses," a compelling piece that offers a fresh lens on inner resilience and spiritual grounding. Drawing from traditional Buddhist teachings, the article introduces the concept of the Three Fortresses—Powerful antidotes to distraction, confusion, and self-doubt on the path of practice. In today’s episode, I share reflections on how these fortresses serve as both refuge and rallying point—helping us meet the challenges of daily life with steadiness, awareness, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating a tough moment or simply trying to stay centered in your practice, this teaching will give you tools to return home to yourself. What You’ll Learn: What the Three Fortresses are and how they can support your spiritual path How to apply their wisdom to your everyday life Why awareness, retreat, and reliance on the Dharma are vital in uncertain times Resources: Read the full article at Want to deepen your meditation practice? Visit the for more resources and guidance. Share this episode with someone who could use a dose of calm and insight. (Complimentary consultation) THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: Email: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: Donate: Subscribe: | Rate and review us in Apple Podcasts!
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ZC 2115: Tricycle Week - Knowing Contentment by Myozan Ian Kilroy
06/09/2025
ZC 2115: Tricycle Week - Knowing Contentment by Myozan Ian Kilroy
Zen Commuter — Tricycle Week: "Knowing Contentment" by Myozan Ian Kilroy Welcome to another insightful installment of Tricycle Week on Zen Commuter! Today, we explore the wisdom of Myozan Ian Kilroy in his poignant article, Knowing Contentment. In a world constantly pushing us toward more — more success, more possessions, more striving — Kilroy’s reflections offer a gentle yet powerful reminder of the peace found in appreciating what already is. We’ll dive into how contentment is not complacency, but rather a deep awareness of enoughness. Through the lens of Buddhist practice, today’s episode encourages us to pause, reconnect with our present experience, and discover the calm that arises from letting go of craving. Whether you’re commuting, walking, or simply taking a mindful break, this episode is an invitation to slow down and rediscover the joy of sufficiency. 🧘♂️ Episode Highlights The distinction between contentment and passivity How craving disrupts our inner peace Reflections from Myozan Ian Kilroy's own practice Practical ways to cultivate contentment throughout your day 📖 Read the original article at Tricycle: The Buddhist Review Meditation Coaching (Complimentary consultation) THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: Email: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: Donate: Subscribe: | Rate and review us in Apple Podcasts!
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The Daily Buddhist by Brendan Barca and Pema Sherpa
06/04/2025
The Daily Buddhist by Brendan Barca and Pema Sherpa
The Daily Buddhist by Brendan Barca and Pema Sherpa Today I read some selected passages from The Daily Buddhist. Authors Pema Sherpa and Brendan Barca have written a wonderful book whose essence is in total concert with Zen Commuter. Their book helps us life a fuller, calmer and more loving life by incorporating Buddhist principles and beliefs with our day to day lives. Come listen. What You'll Discover in This Episode: How to connect with others A method for becoming less self-focused Ways for becoming kinder to people thoughts about the illusion of separateness Resources & Mentions: The Daily Buddhist on Substack – The Daily Buddhist online - The Daily Buddhist on Instagram - THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show If this episode brought you value, please share it with someone who might benefit from a little more calm and clarity. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: Email: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: Subscribe: | Rate and Review the Show:
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Buddhism in the Everyday: Brendan Barca’s Insights for Modern Life
06/03/2025
Buddhism in the Everyday: Brendan Barca’s Insights for Modern Life
Buddhism in the Everyday: Brendan Barca’s Insights for Modern Life What happens when ancient wisdom meets modern living? In today’s episode, I sit down with Brendan Barca, co-author of The Daily Buddhist, to talk about how Buddhist principles can bring more peace and clarity to your everyday routine. We explore the value of simple, consistent practice and how mindfulness can shift your experience of stress, uncertainty, and daily life. What You'll Discover in This Episode: How The Daily Buddhist came to life—and what inspired it Practical ways to bring Buddhist wisdom into your daily life Why consistency matters more than intensity in spiritual practice How mindfulness can help when life feels overwhelming Resources & Mentions: The Daily Buddhist on Instagram - The Daily Buddhist on Substack – Brendan’s Website – The Daily Buddhist online - THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show If this episode brought you value, please share it with someone who might benefit from a little more calm and clarity. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: Email: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: Subscribe: | Rate and Review the Show:
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