Podcasts

Is it possible to gain enough perspective on our wants and desires that we can actually become free of them, as the Buddha taught? In tonight's talk, Michael addresses this issue by pointing out that stillness allows for us to not only see our "nonsense," but to let...

How is it that Eihei Dogen's suggestion that when we "forget the self, we are enlightened by all things" apply when we welcome new life into the world? In tonight's talk, recorded just two days after his daughter's birth, Michael addresses this issue by pointing out...

How can we possibly stabilize any type of spiritual practice or realization in the face of all the crap that the world throws our way? In tonight's talk, Michael addresses this issue by suggesting that practicing in the face of beauty is no different than practicing...

What happens when we truly forgive? In tonight's talk, Michael discusses how the simple release that comes with real forgiveness allows us to let the Universe evolve through us consciously. Meeting our stillness during our waking hours helps us along this path....

Are there reasons to embrace a group of spiritual friends? In this talk, Michael discusses how we actually need friends to assist us as we climb the Mountain of Spirit. "We may take the steps on our own," he says, "but we need friends to deepen our realization."

Can we become familiar with what the ego feels like? In this talk, Michael discusses uncovering the fundamental truth that is beyond name and form. When we feel resistance to this truth, we are feeling the skin of ego. When we get into a sangha, or group, of spiritual...

What is our True Nature? What is our Natural State? In this talk, Michael discusses the ways in which we inhibit that which is completely Natural from showing up through us. He first gives some pointers on cultivating basic awareness in our meditation, and then...

In this talk, Michael discusses how we can see that those who metaphorically give us bloody noses, can be our greatest teachers, offering us great Dharma doors through which we can walk. He talks about his stint as a stand-up comic, and then uses an excerpt from his...

What does it mean to have a Beginner's Mind? In this talk, Michael discusses how we can meet our lives in a way that frees us from the traps of day-to-day living. He uses an excerpt from Jon Kabat-Zinn's book Wherever You Go, There You Are. Over time, as he explains,...

How is it that deep spiritual teaching is said to offer us nothing? In this talk, Michael discusses how the ego wants desperately to be recognized, but then in this recognition, its relevance begins to wane. Questions from the audience deal with how this work is...