Ditching the Guru: Ethics, Environment, and the Future of Community

In this thought-provoking episode, host Julian Royce sits down with Waylon Lewis, the founder of Elephant Journal, for a candid exploration of what it means to live an ethical life in a "convenience-obsessed" world. From the toxic reality of plastic-coated books to the complicated legacy of the Shambala Buddhist community, they dive deep into how we can reclaim our personal power from corporate monopolies and addictive algorithms. Whether you're struggling with "junk dopamine" or looking for a way to stay mindful in a polarized political landscape, this conversation offers a grounded, often witty roadmap for moving from "hot boredom" to genuine connection.Main Topics CoveredThe Environmental Cost of Media: Why Waylon moved Elephant Journal online and his obsessive journey to publish the world's only plastic-free books.The "Attention Economy" & Mental Health: Breaking the cycle of "junk dopamine" and the importance of keeping phones out of the bedroom.Consumer Power vs. Systemic Change: A debate on whether individual choices—like boycotting Amazon or skipping to-go cups—actually move the needle.The Shambala Scandal & "Dharma Brats": Waylon’s personal reflections on growing up in the Boulder Buddhist community and the fall of the Sakyong.The End of the Guru: Why the future of spirituality may require dropping the "worship" model in favor of spiritual mentorship and personal dignity.Corporate Monopolies: The shift from boycotting Walmart in the 90s to the ubiquitous (and dangerous) dominance of Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk.Politics & Discernment: A nuanced look at the Biden administration’s antitrust efforts and why Trump isn't actually "anti-establishment."Community as Therapy: Why the Boulder Farmers Market is Waylon’s "free therapy" and how real-world visibility cures isolation.Key TakeawaysBoredom is a Superpower: Waylon describes "hot boredom" (the initial discomfort of no stimulation) and how, if we sit with it, it cools into genuine relaxation and creativity.Plastic is a Climate Issue: Plastic is essentially "solidified big oil." Reducing plastic use isn't just about waste; it's a direct stand against the fossil fuel industry.Principles over Personalities: Using the example of yoga teacher Richard Freeman, Waylon argues that true "masters" are bored by worship. We must move toward a model of "nontheism" where we respect the teachings, not the pedestal.Individual Action is Collective: While systemic change is needed, reclaiming your power through small daily habits prevents "burnout" and "capitulation to the man."Connect with Waylon LewisWebsite: Elephant JournalInstagram: @waylonlewisBooks: Check out his plastic-free titles, Things I Would Like to Do with You and It’s Never Too Late to Fall in Love with Your Life.Connect with Julian RoyceWebsite: A State of MindSupport the Show: Patreon PageFollow Julian: InstagramEnjoyed this deep dive? Please Follow, Like, and Share this episode to help us grow our community of mindful listeners!